Big Brother is watching...and that can be a good thing if lives are saved. Government oversight of the American workplace, in the form of OSHA (The Occupational Safety and Health Administration), has greatly protected the health and well-being of workers. In fact, according to OSHA, "(since its creation in 1971) occupational deaths have been cut by 62% and injuries have declined by 42%."
OSHA's mission is to "assure the safety and health of America's workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health.
OSHA's workplace safety regulations are usually a set of detailed standards which describe the proper procedures to follow in almost every type of work situation. From specific instructions on the height and support of scaffolding to the correct procedures to follow in the removal of asbestos from buildings, OSHA's regulations are in place to "prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths." (OSHA.gov) One of the most simple and cost-effective ways to protect workers, while meeting OSHA regulations, is the placement of OSHA Signs throughout the facility.
The placement of OSHA Signs is a highly effective way to prevent workplace injuries and death. Exactly which signs to place depend on many factors, such as the particular state, industry, facility size, etc. OSHA Signs are generally found on or around machinery, electrical lines or panels, hazardous chemicals, flammable material areas, gas and fuel lines, confined spaces, hot surfaces and many more locations. Each sign conveys a specific directive, advises the use of caution in potentially dangerous or hazardous areas, or gives a direct warning.
Common OSHA Signs include "Caution-Do Not Enter," "Danger-High Voltage," "No Smoking," and thousands more. Additionally, there are specific OSHA Signs that identify first-aid areas, emergency eye-wash stations or fire extinguisher locations. There is also a line of signs that contain green headers that say, "THINK," followed by a safety reminder. These green-headered types of OSHA Signs are somewhat friendly reminders that gently reinforce workers to always practice smart safety habits. Some examples include: "Don't Take Chances Others Are Depending On You," "Keep This Place Clean and Orderly" and "The Best Safety Device Is a Careful Worker, Get the Safety Habit."
Be certain that your company is in compliance with the many OSHA regulations by visiting http://www.osha.gov. The OSHA website lists all regulations, as well as useful information, advice, statistics and myriad resources on how to become and remain compliant.
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