What is OSHA?

Occupational
Safety
Health
Administration

The Occupational Safety Health Act became a law in 1970 to protect workers and guarantee safe environments in which to work. A year later, the Occupational Safety Health Administration became its own division in the Department of Labor. When OSHA was established, it is estimated there were roughly 14,000 deaths on the job that year. Most workers were unskilled and worked with heavy machinery during this time, which proved to be a fatal combination. The number of deaths has dropped since OSHA was established, from “11 deaths per 100 workers to 3.6 per 100 workers in 2009.”

OSHA reduced the number of deaths on the job by enforcing safety regulations; such as, requiring employees to wear protective equipment, hazardous chemicals to be labeled, and machines to be properly serviced.

How OSHA Interacts With Your Business

OSHA performs sporadic inspections to ensure that workplaces are safe and following all regulations. The OSHA workers leading the inspections are Compliance Officers. They do not have to give advance notice of an inspection; however, employers may require that the officer obtain an inspection warrant prior to performing the inspection. Of course, it’s better to maintain a safe environment so you’re not surprised by an inspection and most importantly, your employees are safe.

The OSHA Star Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) is a great option for businesses. The program requires an in-depth inspection by a safety team to ensure your workplace is up to the codes and regulations of OSHA. Then, your next inspection will be within the next 3-5 years. Through the program, you are exempt from OSHA program inspections. If you are interested in avoiding unexpected visits from OSHA and want a team that will help you make your workspace the safest possible, we can assist you every step of the way.

How does OSHA help my business?

Business owners should know OSHA regulations because, not only do they protect your employees, but your business as well. They can benefit your business because:

• You can maintain a hard-working and motivated workforce by taking time to train workers in safety regulations.
• You can reduce workers’ compensation costs by providing a safe environment and preventing possible injuries.
• Your business will have a lower turnover rate because employees who feel safe and appreciated are more likely to be loyal workers.
• Your workforce will be more productive because less time is lost due to worker injuries.
• You will avoid any penalty fees by abiding by OSHA regulations and routinely assessing your workplace.

When a company invests in their employees’ advancement and safety they establish a mutually beneficial relationship. While OSHA regulates the workplace conditions, they also require that employees be skilled and trained for their position as well as in safety procedures. An employee will appreciate a company willing to invest in safety training, and providing this training can greatly reduce business costs. Ultimately, OSHA was established to protect workers but has since evolved into an agency that also benefits the businesses it regulates.

If you have any questions or are interested in any of the services we offer, such as OSHA Star VPP or safety training classes, you can view our process and fill out a contact form here  or you can call us directly at 877-266-1438.

Note: All information was found on the Department of Labor website: www.dol.gov