Construction Safety - OSHA: Setting Standards and Implementing Regulations
Posted by
Megan RothJuly 02, 2008 12:13 AM
You see them everywhere: camped out on the highway, scaling the sides of buildings, hanging from scaffolding at the house next door. Their work takes place in dangerous locations and often involves the use of heavy machinery and equipment. Thus, it’s no wonder approximately six construction men and/or women die in the United States each day.
Of course, we know not all types of construction entail the same risk and certain industries are more dangerous than others; however, the aforementioned statistic is pertaining to the industry as a whole. And, in order to reduce the risk of accidents within the industry, the U.S. Department of Labor formed the Occupational Health & Safety Administration in 1970 under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
The organization, which exists to prevent injuries and ensure safe workplaces for construction workers, sets federal standards and record keeping requirements. In addition, it operates an extensive website offering information relative to the field. For example, there are numerous training courses and service links aimed at improving overall safety. The organization also offers grants and other forms of assistance to non-profit organizations focusing on construction safety.
In addition, the organization offers an extensive overview of safety standards and compliance activities and frequently distributes news releases to keep contractors up-to-date on those standards. The OSHA website provides links to various publications, including its own Job Safety & Health Quarterly and the Regulations Guide. But OSHA doesn’t stop there; it also offers free safety training on various issues from the construction industry (including but not limited to forklift operation, hazard communication, personal protection equipment, and back safety). In order to lessen the likelihood of injuries, the organization offers assistance to help construction workers comply with requirements and
In the event that a construction accident does occur, the OSHA is there to investigate and evaluate whether the incident could have been avoided; if they determine that, yes – the incident could have been avoided, they cite and fine the contractors and/or employers who neglected to implement adequate preventative measures.
And the organization has no trouble keeping busy; it created a Site-Specific Targeting Program which will investigate worksites with high rates of missed workdays stemming from injuries or illnesses. As of May 19, approximately 3.800 high-hazard worksites had already found their way onto the inspection list…and there will undoubtedly be more to come.