Industry-Wide OSHA Regulations To Be Aware Of

OSHA takes pride in regulating workplace safety to ensure the well-being of workers in all fields. Some guidelines focus on individual industries, while other standards serve as blanket statements for all workplaces to follow. In this article, you’ll learn about a few industry-wide OSHA regulations that you should be aware of.

Walking Surfaces

Walking and working surfaces must be clear of hazards that could affect workers’ well-being. These areas include storerooms, passageways, and service rooms. Hazards such as protruding, sharp objects; corrosion; leaks; and spills are issues to address immediately to prevent incidents.

Exit Routes

In the event of a fire or other dangerous situation, a designated exit route or multiple exits should be available for employees, employers, and other individuals to safely move through. Exit routes must be free of obstruction and accessible to provide a safe passage to the exit discharge. The exit discharge leads outside to a refuge area or an open space that’s a safe distance away from the danger.

Emergency Planning

All workplaces must have specific emergency and evacuation plans that detail essential procedures in case of a crisis. The program should point out exit routes throughout the building and identify meetup zones outside the danger zone for employers, staff, and other individuals.

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials such as compressed gas cylinders should undergo visual inspections to determine their condition. Portable tanks and cylinders must remain in clear, dry areas, free from water spills and fires.

Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment must be available to employees to offer layers of protection when they’re dealing with chemical, biological, and sanitation hazards. Equipment must be in reliable condition and of safe construction for the work assigned.

Medical and First Aid

Should an employee suffer a severe injury, the employer must provide medical personnel on the premises to assist with advice and consultation. In the case of lesser injuries such as cuts, scrapes, or exposure to corrosive material, first aid stations and flushing facilities should be present for immediate emergency use.

Being aware of these industry-wide OSHA regulations makes a difference in maintaining workplace safety, whether you enforce them in your current employment or take your knowledge with you elsewhere.

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