If you’re a small business owner, you know that OSHA citations can be a major headache.
Each year, OSHA releases a list of the most frequently cited violations. It’s important for small businesses to understand and address these common issues in order to avoid potential citations and fines.
According to the most recent data, the top 10 most frequently cited OSHA violations for the fiscal year 2021 were:
- Fall Protection (5,260 Violations)
- Hazardous Communication (2,424 Violations)
- Scaffolding (2,058 Violations)
- Respiratory Protection (2,185 Violations)
Fall protection, which includes violations related to guardrails, safety net systems, and personal fall arrest systems, was the most frequently cited violation for the fourth year in a row.
Hazard Communication Standard
Hazardous communication, also known as the “HazCom” standard, is another major concern for small businesses that deal with hazardous materials. This standard requires employers to have a written hazard communication program and to provide employees with information about the chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace.
This includes labels on containers, safety data sheets, and training on the proper handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Scaffolding and Respiratory Protection
Scaffolding and respiratory protection are also among the top 10 most frequently cited violations.
Scaffolding violations are often related to the proper use and maintenance of scaffolding equipment, as well as ensuring that employees are properly trained on the use of scaffolding.
Respiratory protection violations can include failure to provide employees with proper respiratory protection equipment or failure to properly maintain and clean the equipment.
How To Comply With OSHA
So, what can you do to avoid OSHA citations?
One effective way is to implement a safety management system (SMS) in the workplace. An SMS is a systematic approach to managing safety and health in the workplace, and can help your small business identify and address potential hazards before they lead to accidents or injuries.
This can include regular safety inspections, employee training, and incident reporting and investigation. (Check out our technology partner Proact for training, programs, and software to help with that)
OSHA citations can be a major concern for small business owners and can cost businesses huge amounts of money; and as a small business, it’s hard enough already.
To avoid potential citations and fines, small businesses need to understand and address these common issues and take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their employees and prevent accidents. Implementing a safety management system (SMS), providing training for employees, and creating risk management plans help avoid costly OSHA violations to your small business.
Check out technology partner Proact for safety management software to help your business run safer and more effectively.
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