Major OSHA Regulations to Know for Employment Law

Understanding Major OSHA Regulations is crucial for ensuring workplace safety and compliance with Employment Law. These regulations protect employees from hazards, mandate proper training, and require employers to maintain safe environments, ultimately promoting health and well-being in the workplace.

1. General Duty Clause

   • Requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that can cause death or serious physical harm.
   • Applies to all employers under OSHA jurisdiction, regardless of specific regulations.
   • Employers must take reasonable steps to prevent workplace hazards.

2. Hazard Communication Standard

   • Mandates that employers inform and train employees about hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
   • Requires proper labeling of hazardous materials and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each chemical.
   • Aims to ensure that employees understand the risks and safe handling procedures for chemicals.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standards

   • Employers must assess workplace hazards and provide appropriate PPE to employees.
   • Training on the proper use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE is required.
   • PPE must be properly fitted and maintained to ensure maximum protection.

4. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements

   • Employers must maintain records of work-related injuries and illnesses.
   • Certain incidents must be reported to OSHA within specified timeframes.
   • Accurate recordkeeping helps identify workplace hazards and improve safety measures.

5. Occupational Noise Exposure Standard

   • Establishes permissible noise exposure limits to protect workers from hearing loss.
   • Requires employers to implement a hearing conservation program when noise levels exceed the limits.
   • Employees must be provided with hearing protection and training on its use.

6. Respiratory Protection Standard

   • Requires employers to provide respirators when necessary to protect employees from airborne contaminants.
   • Employers must establish a respiratory protection program that includes training, fit testing, and maintenance.
   • Ensures that employees are aware of the proper use and limitations of respiratory protection.

7. Bloodborne Pathogens Standard

   • Aims to protect employees from exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials.
   • Requires employers to implement an exposure control plan and provide training to employees.
   • Mandates the use of universal precautions and proper disposal of contaminated materials.

8. Fall Protection Standards

   • Requires employers to provide fall protection for employees working at heights of six feet or more in the construction industry.
   • Employers must assess fall hazards and implement appropriate safety measures, such as guardrails or personal fall arrest systems.
   • Training on fall hazards and safety practices is essential for employees.

9. Lockout/Tagout Standard

   • Establishes procedures to ensure that machinery is properly shut off and not able to be started up again before maintenance or servicing is completed.
   • Requires employers to develop and implement lockout/tagout programs to protect employees from hazardous energy.
   • Training is necessary for employees to understand and follow lockout/tagout procedures.

10. Confined Space Entry Standard

• Defines requirements for safe entry into confined spaces, which can pose serious hazards.
• Employers must evaluate confined spaces and develop a permit system for entry.
• Training on hazards, emergency procedures, and the use of protective equipment is required for employees entering confined spaces.