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Print ArticleHAZARD COMMUNICATION
Employee exposure to hazardous and toxic substances was the second most frequently cited area this past year. The top violation was having an inadequate "Right-to-Know" program for employees. A hazard communication program that meets OSHA requirements includes the following: Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals; safe handling and storage procedures for each chemical; adequate PPE; quick drench showers and eye wash stations; and comprehensive training programs for employees. If you have more than 10 employees, your Hazard Communication Program must be in writing.
MATERIALS TRANSPORT
Fork Trucks: Citations on OSHA's powered industrial truck (PIT) standard comprised 86 percent of the violations in this category. It is essential that employees have the training and knowledge to use material handling equipment and that your facility has established safe work procedures.
The majority of fork truck incidents can be attributed to lack of safe operating procedures, safety-rule enforcement, and insufficient or inadequate training. In addition, applying general safety principles, such as proper work practices, can help to reduce such workplace incidents.
All personnel who work around forklifts must be trained on safe work practices. Operators must be trained on the type of truck they use and the working conditions encountered. Refresher training must be conducted at least every three years.
Cranes and Slings: Violations for cranes and slings made up the balance of citations in materials transport. Improper selection or use of slings can result in sling failure or load slippage, leading to injuries or death. OSHA has recently issued a new guidance document on the use of slings. The new document provides guidance on selection and use of slings, including newer grades of materials being used in alloy steel chain and wire rope slings.
