OSHA warns of the continuous dangers associated with falls in the workplace, and the price per fall just got higher. On Nov. 2, 2015, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 was passed by Congress. This act required all federal agencies, OSHA included, to increase their penalty rates. OSHA hadn’t increased fine rates since 1990. In short, this means OSHA has added a 78-percent increase per fine. Any OSHA violations that occurred after Nov. 2 will be subject to these new penalty rates.
Before Nov. 2, the average fine was anywhere from $10,000 to $75,000. Now the average fine will range from $15,000 to $130,000. It is imperative you consider every aspect of your operational procedures, avoid these hefty fines at all costs and — even more importantly — provide the safest work environment for your employees.
Here is a list of key factors to help minimize the risk of being fined and to help you avoid possible injuries and/or fatalities from occurring. Employers must take time to evaluate their workplaces so they fully understand the risks associated with their environments. Take note of any overhead platforms, elevated work areas, and areas with holes in floors and/or walls. Below are some key points to consider when evaluating your fall protection:
• Understand what fall protection is and why it is important.
• Consider any and all hazards in relation to the job being completed.
• Never rush a job, and reschedule specific jobs if needed.
• Observe walking surfaces and surrounding environments.
• Develop a fall prevention plan and guidelines.
• Develop fall prevention training programs.
• Thoroughly examine fall protection equipment and understand its use.
• Always account for falling objects.
• Outline best practices for other employers in your industry, and share tactics.
For more information, visit www.Hemcoind.com or call (877) 394-3626.