Things you most likely didn’t know about [OSHA Compliance]

Requirements set out by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are aimed at ensuring safety at the workplace. Formulated in 1971 under President Richard Nixon, it was one of the landmark legislations in any part of the world. Today, almost all kinds of workplaces in the US are regulated by OSHA.

Through its concerted efforts, OSHA has largely been a success, if one takes into account the fatality rate at the workplace it has succeeded in reducing: at the time of its promulgation, the fatality rate of workers in workplaces in the US was 14,000 a year. That number was reduced to 4340 by 2009. This number assumes greater significance when we consider the fact that the number of workplaces multiplied several times during this period.

That OSHA has been able to keep this number to such a low level is a tribute to its efficiency and perseverance. It is all the more commendable when seen in light of the fact that it covers over 130 million workers in over seven million workplaces all around the country.

Let us recount some facts about OSHA compliance, which we hope could throw up things you most likely didn’t know about OSHA Compliance:

Inspections are the soul of OSHA compliance

Inspections are the medium through which OSHA implements its provisions. OSHA compliance is guaranteed through this mechanism. So, it is important to know what workplaces must do to make OSHA inspections hassle-free, which is the means to ensuring OSHA compliance.

It is legally permitted to block access to an OSHA inspector

Although allowed legally, not many workplaces would actually dare to do this for fear of adverse consequences. Legally, OSHA can bring a warranty asking to enter a rebellious facility. More importantly, such workplaces become special targets of OSHA inspections.

You are bound to keep the workplace safe

The employers have a duty to ensure the safety of the workplace, even if there is no specific regulation pertaining to their particular industry or type or workforce. This could be among the things you most likely didn’t know about OSHA Compliance. Why? It is considered a general duty which has to be enforced without being told to through legislation, and for which the penalty is high in case of violation or non-implementation.

Challenging of an OSHA citation has a timeframe

Normally, most citations from the OSHA have to be challenged through proper channels within 15 working days of receipt. Reasons such as vacations are not taken into consideration.

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