OSHA’s Update to Safety & Health Program Management Guidelines
As you probably know, OSHA has updated their guidelines for safety and health programs; but what changes has this update made and how exactly will this affect your company?
These guidelines were updated to reflect changes in the workplace, economy, and the the evolving safety and health issues that have developed since it was released 30 years ago. The update was particularly intended for those at small and medium-sized organizations in hopes to take a step forward to bring occupational safety and health into the 21st century.
What are the action items that OSHA hopes organizations take into consideration?
- Make safety and health the top priority at all times.
- Lead by example.
- Put a reporting system in place.
- Offer training.
- Conduct inspections.
- Ask workers to provide ideas on controlling hazards.
- Set up hazard controls.
- Create instructions for emergency situations.
- Gather worker feedback about workplace changes.
- Strive for improvement.
OSHA suggests that finding and fixing hazards before they cause injury or illness is a far more effective approach than the traditional, reactive approach. The traditional way organizations tend to handle safety and health issues is attempting to fix the problem AFTER it occurs. OSHA wants organizations to become more proactive and prevent accidents before they happen.
How will implementing these new changes benefit your business? Practicing OSHA’s recommendations can…
- Prevent workplace injuries and illnesses
- Improve compliance with laws and regulations
- Reduce costs, including significant reductions in workers’ compensation premiums
- Engage workers
- Enhance their social responsibility goals
- Increase productivity and enhance overall business operations
“The main goal of safety and health programs is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths, as well as the suffering and financial hardship these events can cause for workers, their families, and employers.” – U.S Department of Labor
Is your business looking for help to implement OSHA’s new update? Contact us today: (330) 915-2355