What is OSHA?

Anyone who works in a work environment knows that occupational safety and health are fundamental aspects to guarantee a safe and protected work environment. In this sense, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) becomes a key entity in the field of occupational safety and health in the United States.

But what is OSHA exactly and what is its function? In this article, we will explore in depth what OSHA is, its importance and how it plays a fundamental role in protecting workers and promoting healthy work environments.

So, if you want to get to know this agency better and how it influences the country’s work life, take note of each of the data we leave you below, so that you can better understand the laws that protect you as a worker in the United States.

 

Also check: Construction scaffolding accidents in NY

 

What is the purpose of OSHA?

The purpose of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is to promote and ensure safe and healthy working conditions for workers in the United States. The agency has several fundamental objectives:

Establish and enforce standards

OSHA develops and establishes standards and regulations that cover a wide range of industries and occupational hazards. These standards cover areas such as hazardous substance control, personal protective equipment, fall prevention, electrical safety, and much more. OSHA is also responsible for enforcing these standards through inspections and sanctions in case of non-compliance.

Training and education

This agency provides training programs and educational resources for employers and employees in order to promote awareness of occupational safety and health. These programs include training courses, seminars, informational materials, and online tools to help businesses comply with safety requirements.

Research and data collection

OSHA conducts investigations into workplace accidents, occupational diseases, and emerging risks to better understand the causes and prevent future incidents. In addition, it collects and analyzes data related to occupational safety and health to identify trends, areas for improvement, and priorities in its work of protecting workers.

Collaboration and technical assistance

OSHA works closely with employers, employees, unions, and other groups related to occupational safety and health. It provides technical assistance and consulting to help companies implement safe practices, improve their safety management, and comply with established standards.

What kind of companies are subject to OSHA regulations?

OSHA regulations apply to a wide range of businesses and workplaces in the United States. In general, all businesses, including those in the private sector, public sector (at the state and local level), and non-profit organizations, are subject to OSHA regulations as long as they have employees. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Manufacturing industries: factories, production plants, workshops, among others.
• Construction: contractors, subcontractors, demolition companies, excavation work, among others.
• Health services: hospitals, clinics, medical offices, laboratories, nursing homes, among others.
• Food industry: restaurants, hotels, catering services, food processing, among others.
• Retail trade: stores, supermarkets, warehouses, shopping centers, among others.
• Educational services: schools, colleges, universities, training institutions, among others.
• Public utilities: electric, gas and water service companies, wastewater treatment plants, among others.
• Agricultural sector: farms, ranches, nurseries, forestry, among others.

It is important to note that OSHA also has specific regulations for high-risk industries and activities such as the construction industry, handling hazardous chemicals, working at heights, working in confined spaces, among others.

 

 

What are OSHA standards for the construction industry?

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has established a series of specific standards for the construction industry with the aim of protecting the safety and health of workers in this field. Some of OSHA’s most important standards for the construction industry include:

• Fall protection (29 CFR 1926 Subpart M): This standard sets requirements for fall protection in elevated workplaces, such as scaffolds, platforms, roofs, and ladders. It includes the use of guardrails, safety nets, fall protection systems, and other personal protective equipment.
• Electrical hazards (29 CFR 1926 Subpart K): This standard focuses on electrical safety in the workplace and sets requirements for the safe installation and use of electrical equipment and systems. It also covers personal protection against electrical hazards and appropriate control measures.
• Excavation protection (29 CFR 1926 Subpart P): This standard applies to excavation work and sets requirements for protecting workers from collapses and cave-ins in excavations. It includes measures such as the use of shoring systems, protective shields, and proper hazard identification.
• Confined spaces (29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA): This standard refers to entry and work in confined spaces, such as tanks, pipes, and restricted access chambers. It sets requirements for risk assessment, adequate ventilation, air monitoring, entry and rescue procedures, and worker training.
• Hazardous materials handling (29 CFR 1926 Subpart D): This standard sets requirements for the safe handling of hazardous materials in the construction workplace, including proper storage, labeling, handling, and use of appropriate personal protective equipment.

These are just a few examples of OSHA standards for the construction industry. In addition, there are specific regulations for respiratory protection, scaffolding, machinery and equipment, hearing protection, and many other aspects related to occupational safety and health in the construction industry.

Get legal advice with our Shikh Law attorneys

If you have suffered a workplace accident in New York and need legal advice, at Nonna Shikh Law we are here to help you. Our team of accident lawyers has extensive experience in cases related to occupational safety and health. You can count on us to guide and represent your legal rights diligently and committedly.

Call us now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation so we can evaluate your case. You can count on us to guide and represent your legal rights diligently and committedly. Your safety and justice are our priority!

 

You may also be interested in: What are the main causes of deaths and injuries on scaffolds?

 

FAQs

What are the basic safety measures that employees should follow in the workplace?

Employees should follow basic safety measures in the workplace to ensure their safety and well-being. Some of these measures include the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves; following established guidelines and procedures to prevent falls and accidents; keeping the workplace clean and tidy to prevent tripping and slipping hazards; using tools and machinery correctly, and reporting any problems or risks to their supervisor or safety department. 

In addition, it is important to receive regular training on occupational safety and health to be aware of risks and know how to act in case of an emergency. By following these measures, employees contribute to creating a safer work environment for everyone.

 

What are the consequences of not complying with OSHA standards?

Not complying with OSHA standards can have serious consequences for both employers and workers. For employers, consequences may include inspections and economic sanctions by OSHA, which vary in severity depending on the violation. 

In addition, non-compliance with OSHA standards can result in workplace injuries or illnesses for workers, which can generate medical expenses, loss of productivity, compensation, and legal claims.

How can I file a complaint or report to OSHA?

If you need to file a complaint or report to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), there are several options available. You can contact the nearest local OSHA office to your location to report unsafe conditions or violations of occupational safety and health standards. 

You can also file a complaint online through OSHA’s official website, providing details about the situation and specific concerns. OSHA guarantees the confidentiality of complaints, so you can report irregularities without fear of retaliation.

Whatever path you take, it is important to ensure that you have adequate legal representation. Call now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation for immediate legal assistance in your New York workplace accident case.