Safety AWAIR Manual - Electrical Association
Section 10: Safety Training topics (Not Required for AWAIR)
Included:
Right-to-Know
Lockout/ Tagout
Confined Space
General Safety Rules
Right-to-Know / Hazardous Communication
Requirements for Business Owners
Purpose
The Minnesota Right-To-Know (RTK) Act of 1983 requires that employers:
1. Read and understand your responsibilities as an employer.
2. Evaluate their workplaces for the existence of hazardous substances, harmful physical agents, infectious agents and the like, list the hazardous chemicals, establish a file on each one including a copy of the latest Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and any other pertinent information along with procedures to keep your list current.
3. SDSs must be obtained for each hazardous chemical. Missing SDSs must be requested from the manufacturer or supplier. SDSs must be reviewed for completeness and the missing information obtained from the manufacturer or supplier.
4. All containers must be labeled correctly and completely.
5. A written hazard communication must be developed and implemented. Training and information will be provided to those employees covered by this act who are routinely exposed to those substances and agents.
Sample Policy for Right-to-Know / Hazardous Communication
The policy of (company name) is to perform all work activities in a manner conforming to all of the RTK requirements. Employees working with hazardous substances must be identified and provided with training prior to assignment to any duties that may bring them into contact with any hazardous substance, and/or harmful physical agent. Harmful physical agents are defined as heat, noise, and ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. This company will provide the safest possible working conditions for its employees and other individuals at our work locations who may be exposed to conditions that we create. The requirements of our RTK program, therefore, are conditions of employment and are subject to any, and/or all of the disciplinary procedures outlined in the disciplinary section of this manual.
Our company has completed the following steps to come into compliance with RTK:
• Inventoried all of the products we normally use in our work activities
• Listed the hazardous chemicals that are generated in the work operation but are not in a container such as welding fumes
• Have compiled a hazardous chemical list including the manufacturer’s product name, location, telephone number and the work area where the product is used
• Established a file for each hazardous material, obtained Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for all of these products, any other pertinent information
• Have insured that all of the product containers we have in inventory and purchase are labeled as required by the RTK, and Haz/Comm standards
• Developed a procedure to keep this inventory current to assure that any new hazardous substances are used that they are added to the inventory list complete with SDS
Exposure to harmful physical agents such as with noise exposure is covered separately in our Hearing Conservation Program. Exposures to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation is also covered by a separate section in this manual, however, they remain an integral part of our RTK program, and subject to all of the training requirements.
Our RTK Communication Program will inform you and the employees of contractors about:
• The general company policy shown above
• The contents of the Right-To-Know standard (a summary is enclosed)
• An inventory list and the hazardous properties of chemicals with which you work (the SDS for the most common substances are in the back of this book and a full list is available in the office)
• Safe handling procedures, how to read labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and other forms of warnings
• Measures and work procedures needed to protect yourselves from these chemicals including the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and its limitations for use
• The hazards associated with non-routine tasks
• The hazards associated with chemicals in unlabeled piping
Any time our work process and/or the products we use change, you will be given training relevant to the new process, and/or use of the new product.
Responsibility
The Safety Coordinator of this company has the authority and responsibility to be sure that our company and our employees are in compliance with Right-To-Know and other regulations affecting your health and well-being.
Objectives
To safeguard our employees’ health by:
• Providing a management guide for compliance with the RTK program,
• To provide our employees, other contractors and vendors at our work locations with necessary information concerning health and physical hazards of the chemical materials in use at our worksites,
• To comply with Department of Labor and Industry OSHA rules MNOSHA Ch. 5206. 1 - 1200, Federal Standard part 1910.1200, and applicable identified portions of Part 1926.
Scope
This program will provide the means in which the transmission of information to employees of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. It will include, but will not be limited to the following requirements:
• Listing of all chemical products used or stored on company property.
• Evaluation of the potential hazard of all chemicals in use or stored on company property.
• Insuring that there are appropriate labels on all containers of the chemicals we use.
• Insuring that there are SDSs available for all of the chemical products used or stored on our property.
• Train employees to recognize and interpret labels, warnings, color coding and signs affixed to containers and to use this information to avoid, and/or lessen potential hazards.
• Train employees to interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), and to use this information to avoid, and/or lessen potential hazards.
• Make this RTK program available upon request to employees, their designated representative, and Emergency Personnel as stated in the MN statutes.
• Administration of the RTK program will be the responsibility of the Safety Coordinator who will insure that all of the above stated requirements are met to insure compliance with the right-to-know/hazard communication laws.
Implementation
Inventory:
• Identify and list all substances and survey for hazardous physical agents at our facilities
• Be sure to include chemicals that are generated in our work operation but are not in containers (e.g., welding fumes, fumes generated by cutting on coated metals, etc.)
• Develop procedures to keep the list current
• Add new substances, when they are used, to the list
• Subtract chemicals from the list when their use is discontinued
• Dispose of any discontinued chemicals properly
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
All new purchases of chemicals will be accompanied by appropriate SDSs. These sheets must contain:
• The physical and chemical properties of the substance
• The physical health hazards
• Routes of exposure
• Precautions for safe handling and use
• Emergency first-aid procedures
• Control measures
Delivery of any shipment not accompanied with their appropriate SDSs will not be accepted until cleared by the company safety coordinator. SDSs can be obtained directly from the local supply house or by writing to the manufacturer at the address printed on the label.
Labeling
All incoming shipments of hazardous substances will be checked to insure that they are labeled, and that each label contains the following three pieces of information:
• The identity of the hazardous substance(s)
• The appropriate hazard warnings
• The name and address of the chemical manufacturers, importer, or other responsible party
Original labels on containers are not to be removed. If the material is transferred to a different size container, the container will be labeled to reflect the contents of the material.
Employee Training
The safety coordinator will review our employee training program and advise on initial training, or annual retraining needs. The following training will be done:
• Retraining will be done annually.
• Training will be done when there is a hazardous change in product and/or work procedure,
• Regular safety meetings will review the information presented in the initial training using audio, visual, and classroom training specially prepared for this purpose.
The following topics will be discussed during training:
• Existence and requirements of RTK/HazCom standards
• Hazardous substances that may be encountered and the health hazards associated with these substances
• A review/explanation of the SDS for any hazardous substances and where the SDSs are located
• Detection of hazardous substances
• Safety precautions and protective procedures
• Emergency procedures
• A review of the company hazardous communication program
• Employee rights, in a union shop, to notify your employer, your union official or OSHA about job hazards; to file a grievance regarding health or safety; to be on a company or union safety committee, and to participate in OSHA hearings, meetings, conferences and such
• To make the workplace a safer place for all employees to work
As part of the assessment of the training program, the Safety Coordinator will obtain input from employees regarding the training they have received and their suggestions for improving it.
Scope
Employees working and/or routinely exposed to hazardous substances must be identified and provided with training in the following areas prior to assignment to such duties:
• Summary of the RTK standard and this written program.
• The chemical and physical properties of hazardous materials, and methods that can be used to detect the materials, and methods that can be used to detect the presence or release of chemicals (including chemicals in unlabeled piping).
• The physical hazards of chemicals (e.g., potential for fire, explosion, etc.).
• Known health hazards including signs and symptoms of exposure, route(s) of entry, medical conditions aggravated by exposure, whether OSHA, NTP, or IARC lists the ingredient as a carcinogen, and emergency first-aid procedures.
• Precautions for safe handling and use including procedures to be taken for accidental spill or release of material; proper disposal methods; safe handling and storage, and emergency response procedure.
• Work procedures to follow to assure protection when cleaning hazardous chemical spills and leaks.
• The location of the SDSs, how to read and interpret the information on both labels and SDSs, and how employees may obtain additional hazard information.
Outside Contractor Responsibilities
The safety coordinator will advise outside contractors in person and in writing of:
• Any chemical hazards that may be encountered in the normal course of their work on premises
• The labeling system in use
• The required protective measures (e.g., PPE, ventilation, etc.) to be taken
• The safe handling procedures to be used
• Worker/supervisor will notify responsible individuals of the location and availability of SDSs
Each contractor bringing substances to the jobsite will meet this same requirement. All employees or their designated representatives can obtain further information of this written RTK program, the employee RTK standard, applicable SDSs, and chemical information lists from our company job trailer.
Samples for Right-to-Know Rules
Right-to-Know/ Hazard Communication
Program for
_________________________________
(Company name)
1. (Company name) will put a copy of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for every hazardous substance that is commonly used by our company in each AWAIR Safety Manual. An AWAIR Safety Manual will be provided to each employee and for each vehicle as well as on each job site and in the main office.
Owner/supervisor will check for labels on all newly purchased hazardous materials as they are received to assure labels remain in place and can be read.
If an SDS is not received with the shipment, the owner/supervisor will contact the manufacturer or supplier by mail or fax to ask that it be sent as soon as possible.
Employer has developed a comprehensive hazardous chemical inventory (attached).
2. (Company name) will provide training on the SDSs to all new hires, annually and when a new hazardous substance is introduced to the job site. The employer will have the employee sign a form documenting s/he received training and what was covered in this training.
3. Employee will:
• Keep the AWAIR Safety Manual in the vehicle at the job site at all times.
• Comply with any applicable OSHA rules, respect all precautions and not take unnecessary risks.
• Read the OSHA poster at your office.
• Report any job related or non-job related injury or illness promptly and get proper treatment.
• Cooperate with any OSHA personnel on the job site by immediately bringing him/her to your supervisor and, after that time, answering any questions courteously.
4. Employee will notify supervisor immediately if an SDS sheet is missing or damaged. Supervisor will make sure it is replaced immediately.
5. If there are multiple employers on a job site, (company name) supervisor will:
• Show employees where the other contractors keep their SDSs on the jobsite,
• Make sure employees attend any safety meetings conducted by the general contractor.
• Review hazard information with other contractors and discuss at the regular safety meeting.
• Inform other contractors of our hazards, where our SDSs are, and invite them to our safety meetings.
6. Employees will attend all safety training sessions they are directed to attend by their supervisor.
7. Employee will ask supervisor any questions s/he has about a SDS.
8. (Company name) will conduct hazard training covering the specific hazards involved and how they will be controlled:
• at the beginning of each new job
• when any new employees are introduced to that job
• after each regular review of the job site if any new hazards are found
• if any new hazardous substances are introduced
• for employees who are performing non-routine tasks
9. Employees will notify a supervisor immediately any time a hazardous material is found on the job. All PCB ballasts, transformers, vapor lamps, florescent lamps and bulbs will be brought back to the shop for disposal unless they are the property of the owner.
10. Employee must contact the supervisor when confronted with a task that is not a routine work assignment. The supervisor must then:
• Identify all hazards and hazardous substances involved in the task
• Develop procedures which will enable the employee to safely proceed with the task
• Inform the employee of potential hazards and discuss the procedures which have been developed to safely complete the task
• Conduct a follow-up inspection to assure the proper procedures are being followed
• Contact the office if the situation requires action beyond the control of the supervisor
11. Employee must immediately leave the location and contact the supervisor if their work brings them on or near unlabeled pipes.
12. Employee will respect all precautions and not take any chances.
13. Employee will make the workplace as safe as it can be for all employees.
• Identify all potential hazards before beginning a task
• Respect all precautions and will not take any chances
• Check with a supervisor or someone else in authority if unsure about a situation
• Learn in advance the potential problems in a situation and what to do if they happen
• Know and use the company hazard reporting procedure
• Learn basic first aid and bloodborne pathogen procedures and how to use them safely
• Report all hazards to supervisor or competent person immediately
14. Employees going onto an unfamiliar plant site will be informed of plant hazards during an initial training meeting by a competent employee of the plant who understands electrical and other hazards.
15. Periodic internal audits will be conducted to make sure each part of the program is running effectively and if improvements can be made.
16. Employees have access to all of their medical or exposure records. (Company name) will keep exposure records for 30 years and medical records will be maintained for the duration of employment plus thirty years. The company will provide exposed employees with their records within fifteen working days unless a reasonable explanation is given.
17. In case of an emergency involving a hazardous substance, the SDS will be given to the medical personnel before treating the exposed employee.
Notes: For more information, see OSHA's Haz/Comm Standard 29 CFR 1910.1200, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Annual Hazardous Communication Program Checklist
Owner/Supervisor/Safety Coordinator____________________________________________
Date Review Began: ________________ Date Review Completed: ____________________
Yes No
1. Is the Hazardous Material Inventory current? ( (
2. Are purchasing controls provided and being used? ( (
3. Are SDSs current and available in the workplace? ( (
4. Are new employees being trained immediately upon starting? ( (
5. Are employees who have been transferred being trained
upon starting work in their new areas? ( (
6. Is the written hazard communication program current? ( (
7. Is monitoring performed on schedule? ( (
8. Are employees informed on monitoring results? ( (
9. Are all chemical labels maintained? ( (
10. Are maintenance personnel properly trained? ( (
11. Are contractor employees informed of hazards? ( (
12. Is personal protective equipment being used properly? ( (
13. Are accurate records maintained on all of the above? ( (
Additional comments:
Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ______________________
Chemical Inventory Policy
The job supervisor is required to compile a list of all hazardous materials present on the job site. This list must be updated anytime new materials are received. The list should be kept with SDS book in a place where it is accessible to all employees at each jobsite and in the company office.
You will find our list and SDS sheets:
1. On each site
2. In the main office
3.
4.
Hazardous Chemicals List
All commonly used Operation and/or area
names of chemicals where it is used SDSs on file
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Policy Suggestions for Warning Labels
All containers containing hazardous substances must have a clearly readable label attached. If the substance is transferred to a different container, the container should have a label showing the same information as the original container. Labels must provide the following information:
❑ The identity of hazardous chemical
❑ The appropriate hazard warnings and safety precautions
❑ The name, address, and telephone number of the supplier
❑ First-aid instructions
❑ Container disposal methods
It is the responsibility of the job supervisor to ensure that all containers are properly labeled.
Labels will be used to deal with dust, gasses and other substances not in containers by posting them at:
1. The entrance to a contaminated area
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sample System Labeling
|BLUE |RED |YELLOW |
|Identification of Health Hazard |Identification of Flammability |Identification of Reactivity |
|Type of Possible Injury |Susceptibility to Burning |Susceptibility to Release of Energy |
|Signal |Materials which on very short |Signal |Materials which will rapidly or|Signal |Materials which are readily capable of |
| |exposure could cause death or | |completely vaporize at | |detonation or of explosive |
| |major residual injury even though | |atmospheric pressure and normal| |decomposition or reaction at normal |
|4 |prompt medical treatment is given |4 |ambient temperature and which |4 |temperatures and pressures |
| | | |will burn. | | |
| |Materials which on short exposure | | | |Materials that are capable of |
| |could cause serious temporary or | |Liquids and solids that can be | |detonation or explosive reaction but |
| |residual injury even though prompt| |ignited under almost all | |require strong initiating source, or |
|3 |medical treatment is given. |3 |ambient temperature conditions |3 |that must be heated under confinement |
| | | | | |before initiation, or react explosively|
| | | | | |with water. |
| |Materials which on intense or | | | |Materials that are normally unstable |
| |continued exposure could cause | |Materials that must be | |and readily undergo violent chemical |
| |temporary incapacitation or | |moderately heated or exposed to| |changes but do not detonate: also |
|2 |possible residual injury unless |2 |relatively high ambient |2 |materials that may react with water |
| |prompt medical treatment is given | |temperatures before ignition | |violently, or that may form potentially|
| | | |can occur | |explosive mixtures with water. |
| | | | | |Materials that are normally stable, but|
| |Materials which on exposure would | | | |that can become unstable at elevated |
| |cause irritation but only minor | |Materials that must be | |temperatures and pressures, or that may|
|1 |residual injury even if no |1 |preheated before ignition can |1 |react with water with some release of |
| |treatment is given | |occur | |energy, but not violently. |
| |Materials which on exposure under | | | |Materials that are normally stable even|
| |fire conditions would offer no | |Materials that will not burn | |under fire explosive conditions and |
|0 |hazard beyond that of ordinary |0 | |0 |that are not reactive with water. |
| |combustibles. | | | | |
Compliance Checklist
Yes No
( ( Have you designated a Hazard Communication Coordinator?
( ( Have you made a list of all hazardous chemicals that employees in your workplace may be exposed to?
( ( Is there clear communication between the purchasing and receiving departments and the Haz/Com Coordinator?
( ( Are all containers of hazardous substances labeled properly?
( ( Do you have up-to-date Safety Data Sheets for every hazardous chemical in your workplace?
( ( Have you contacted the appropriate supplier for missing or incomplete Safety Data Sheets?
( ( Have you established a comprehensive training program?
( ( Have you identified and trained all employees who need training?
( ( Are your SDSs accessible to all employees on all shifts?
( ( Have you assembled a Written Hazard Communication Plan containing all the elements listed in the booklet?
( ( Do other on-site employers know where your hazard communication information is located and how to request additional information?
Employee Training Checklist
Do all employees know the following:
Yes No
( ( About the existence and requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard?
( ( Who the Hazard Communication Coordinator is?
( ( Where the Written Communication Plan is located?
( ( Where the list of Hazardous Chemicals is located?
( ( About the hazards associated with chemicals they are exposed to?
( ( How to read and understand relevant warning label information?
( ( The location of the SDS forms?
( ( How to read and understand relevant warning label information?
( ( The safety precautions for handling chemicals they work with?
( ( How to detect the presence or release of hazardous chemicals?
( ( Signs of overexposure?
( ( Emergency and first-aid procedures?
( ( Their responsibilities and involvement with compliance efforts?
Inventory of Hazardous Chemicals
|Hazardous Chemical |Common Name |Product Name |Manufacturer |SDS Has Been Received |
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Hazardous Materials Checklist
❑ Listed all of the hazardous chemicals in our workplace.
❑ Established a file for information on hazardous chemicals.
❑ Obtained an SDS for each hazardous chemical in use.
❑ Developed a system to ensure that all incoming hazardous chemicals are labeled.
❑ Reviewed each SDS to be sure it is complete.
❑ Made sure that SDSs are available where necessary.
❑ Developed a written hazard communication program.
❑ Developed a method to communicate hazards to employees and others.
❑ Informed employees of protective measures for hazardous chemicals used in the workplace.
❑ Alerted employees to other forms of warning that may be used.
NEW INFORMATION
Global Harmonization Standards (GHS) for Chemical Safety
with Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
for Hazard Communications (HazCom)
In 2003, the United Nations adopted the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classification and labeling of chemicals. This system was designed as a global, or universal, system for all nations. This GHS system has replaced the old system of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that has been used for years in the United States. OSHA has adopted the GHS standards. This is part of the OSHA Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard under 29 CFR 1910.1200 revised in 2012.
Beginning in December of 2013 this new system was implemented to aid in the response to dangerous chemicals and allows employees, first responders, and medical personnel, first-hand information as to the danger and the remedies needed when responding to chemical accidents. Employers need to train their employees on the new format for information on chemicals. The new sheets are referred to as Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• All chemicals shipped after June 1, 2015, must have SDS labels.
• An SDS is a detailed 16 part standard format bulletin prepared by the manufacturer or importer that describes the physical and chemical properties, physical and health hazards, routes of exposure, precautions for safe handling and use, emergency and first aid procedures, and control measures. A SDS for each known chemical used, must be readily accessible to all employees in the workplace.
• Sections 1 through 8 contain general information about the chemical, identification, hazards, composition, safe handling practices, and emergency control measures (e.g., firefighting). This information should be helpful to those that need to get the information quickly.
• Sections 9 through 11 contain other technical and scientific information, such as physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity information, toxicological information, exposure control information, and other information including the date of preparation or last revision. The SDS must also state that no applicable information was found, if the preparer does not find relevant information for any required element.
• The SDS must also contain Sections 12 through 15, to be consistent with the UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), but OSHA will not enforce the content of these sections because they concern matters handled by other agencies.
• Section 16 is other information
Minimum Hazard Communication Training Requirements.
Employee training shall include at least:
1. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area - such as monitoring conducted by the employer, continuous monitoring devices, visual appearance, or odor of hazardous chemicals when being released, etc.);
2. The physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the work area
3. The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards, including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used;
4. The details of the hazard communication program developed by the employer, including an explanation of the labeling system and the material safety data sheet, and how employees can obtain and use the appropriate hazard information.
[pic]
Sample Label Above
Signal words on the label indicate two levels of hazard. “Danger” is used for more severe hazards and “Warning” is the signal for less severe hazards
The SDS labels need to have: 1) Product identifier- the name of the product. 2) Signal word- indicating the level of potential hazard. The word - “Danger” indicates a more sever hazard and the word “Warning” indicates less severe danger. 3) A Pictogram as in figure that is red square on edge square, with a black hazard symbol inside. 4) Hazard statement - describes the nature of the hazard (for example: causes damage to the kidneys). 5) Precautionary statements – how to avoid or minimize adverse effects. 6) Name, address and phone number of manufacturer or supplier. There are 9 standard pictograms as below.
These pictograms are not the shipping labels required by DOT but are the chemical container labels. Be sure to review the labels on materials you are using to avoid the dangers and to know what remedies are needed if you come into contact with the hazardous chemicals.
[pic]
9 Standard pictograms above
OSHA Standard, 1910.1200
Except as provided in of this section, the employer shall ensure that each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace is labeled, tagged or marked with the following information: (i) identity of the hazardous chemical(s) contained therein; and, (ii) appropriate hazard warnings, or alternatively, words, pictures, symbols, or a combination thereof, which provide at least general information regarding the hazards of the chemicals, and which, in conjunction with the other information immediately available to employees under the hazard communication program, will provide employees with the specific information regarding the physical and health hazards of the hazardous chemical.
The manufacturer’s name, address and emergency phone number should also be on the label. In the event of an emergency, having the emergency phone number on the label can save valuable time.
More information at:
Topics to be Covered in Information and Training Programs
1. The provisions of the RTK/HazCom Standards.
(Insert 3: Summary of Hazardous Communication Standard)
2. Any operations in employees' work areas where hazardous chemicals are present.
3. The location and availability of the company's written hazard communication program including:
• required list(s) of hazardous chemicals
• SDSs required by the Right-To-Know Standard
4. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area.
5. The physical and health hazard of the chemicals in the work area.
6. Measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards including:
• information on work practices
• emergency procedures
• personal protective equipment required by the employer
7. The details of the employers written hazard communication program including:
• explanation of the labeling system use by the employer
• SDSs
• how employees can obtain and use the appropriate hazard information on the labels and in the SDSs
Training Checklist
❑ Established a thorough training program.
❑ Identified employees who need training.
❑ Training program ensures that new employees are trained before their first assignment.
❑ Informed employees of the specific info and training requirements of the RTK/Haz/Com.
❑ Informed employees of the requirements of the standard and their rights under the law.
❑ Informed employees of our written program and training requirements.
❑ Informed employees of the different types of chemicals and the hazards associated with them.
❑ Informed employees of specific chemical hazards that they work with and their proper use and handling.
❑ Informed employees of the hazards associated with performing non-routine tasks.
❑ Employees know how to detect the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
❑ Trained employees in the use of proper work practices, personal protective equipment and clothing, and other controls to reduce or eliminate their exposure to the chemicals in their work areas.
❑ Trained employees in emergency and first-aid procedures and signs of over exposure.
❑ Listed all the hazardous chemicals in our workplace.
❑ Employees know when and how to update our hazardous chemical list.
❑ Obtained or developed a safety data sheet for each hazardous chemical in the workplace.
❑ Explained how to use an SDS.
❑ Informed employees of the list of hazardous chemicals and SDSs and where they are located.
❑ Explained labels and their warnings to employees.
❑ Ensure that all incoming hazardous chemicals are checked for proper labels and data sheets.
❑ Ensure proper labeling and warning signs exist for containers that hold hazardous chemicals.
❑ Identified and informed employees of new hazardous chemicals before they are introduced into a work area.
❑ Established a way to inform employees of new hazards with the chemicals they already use.
❑ Evaluated the effectiveness of the training program and keep track of who has been trained.
Sample Training Program
(For use by the trainer in developing and presenting training)
1. Know the provisions of the RTK/HazCom Standard and explain them to your employees:
• Review the requirements of the Right-To-Know (Minnesota OSHA) & Hazard Communication Standard (Federal OSHA). (Insert 3: Summary at the end of this section.)
• Review your responsibilities.
• Review your employees’ rights and responsibilities.
2. Identify those employees to be trained and explain to them why they need to be trained.
• Review with your employees your assessment of actual and potential employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Review what training your employees need based on this exposure during both normal use of hazardous chemicals and during emergencies.
• Review the way you will train new employees and supervisors on the specific chemicals in your work place and their hazards.
3. Know the hazardous chemicals in your workplace and define the following for your employees:
Hazardous chemicals: Any chemical that is a physical or health hazard.
Physical hazard: A hazard where there is scientifically valid evidence that the chemical is a combustible liquid, a compressed gas, an explosive, a flammable substance, an organic peroxide, an oxidizer, a pyrophoric, or an unstable (reactive) or water-reactive substance.
Health hazard: A hazard that includes cancer-causing, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents that act on hematopoietic system, and agents that damage the lungs, skin, eyes or mucous membranes.
4. Review the hazardous chemicals in your workplace
Step 1: Review the following documents, making sure your employees understand each and where they are located:
( Hazardous Chemicals List—Make sure you have done the following:
❑ Completed a list of the hazardous chemicals in your workplace
❑ Obtain an SDS for each chemical
❑ Review your Hazardous Chemical List explaining the following to your employees:
❑ All of the common and clinical names of chemicals and why it is important to know them or where you can find them (on the SDS).
❑ Operation or area in which the chemical is used and why employees must be aware of its presence so they can take proper precautions.
❑ If there is an SDS on file and the reference name used on the SDS sheet.
( Safety Data Sheet (SDS)—Make sure you have done the following:
❑ Obtained SDSs for each hazardous substance used, packaged, handled or transferred
❑ Checked each SDS to make sure the information is complete
❑ Requested missing SDSs or missing information on SDSs from the manufacturer, importer and/or supplier.
❑ Put copies in a safe and easily accessible place in each office and job site.
❑ Employees must be told where SDSs are located in the main office and on the job site and understand how to find and use them.
❑ How to read, use and interpret an SDS with special focus on:
❑ The different names of the chemical and the importance of knowing these names in locating SDSs and using them.
❑ The name and address of the manufacturer, supplier or importer if they want to contact them for information.
❑ Whether complete information is on file or has been requested.
❑ A full and serious understanding of the hazards of the chemical.
❑ Protective measures to be taken when exposed to the chemical in any way and the importance of following the manufacturer's and employers instructions when coming into contact with these chemicals.
❑ Emergency and first-aid procedures including (1) bloodborne pathogen information and (2) the importance of taking the SDS to the hospital for the medical staff to see before treating injured employee.
( Labeling requirements—Make sure you have done the following:
❑ Checked each container for proper labeling
❑ Make sure any chemicals that are transferred are in clearly marked containers
❑ Cross-reference chemical identifiers on labels to SDSs and the lists of hazardous chemicals
❑ Be aware of other hazardous chemicals that may have specific labeling requirements under other standards such as lead, asbestos and the like.
❑ How to read, use and understand labels explaining:
❑ Each container entering the workplace must be properly labeled including:
❑ Identity of chemicals,
❑ Hazard warnings,
❑ Name and address of manufacturer, importer and/or responsible party.
❑ Employees must read and observe warnings and directions for safe handling of each chemical as listed on labels. Any violation of this rule can result in personal injury, injury to other employees, and/or penalty for endangering self and others.
❑ Employees must immediately notify their supervisor if they see any missing or incomplete labels.
❑ Employees may not handle or come into contact with any hazardous chemical unless they have been trained and understood the training. If they have questions, they must ask their supervisor before proceeding.
❑ Only specially authorized employees may transfer hazardous chemicals to other containers and those containers must be labeled with the chemical identity, hazard warnings and name and address of responsible party.
❑ Words such as Warning or Danger are precautionary statements and do not identify specific hazards. Hazard warnings must convey specific physical and health hazards of the chemicals.
❑ Portable containers require no labels when chemicals are transferred into them from labeled containers and when the chemicals will be used immediately by the employee transferring the chemicals.
❑ Portable containers must be labeled when they are not for immediate use.
❑ Stationery process equipment may be marked with process sheets, batch tickets, standard operating procedures or other written materials in lieu of labels if they contain the same information as a label and are readily available to employees in the work area or station.
❑ Explain how the Chemical identifiers on labels are cross-referenced to the SDSs and lists of hazardous chemicals.
❑ Review thoroughly other hazardous chemicals that may have specific labeling requirements under other standards such as asbestos, lead and the like.
( Review and explain the existing methods of controlling workplace exposures and make sure employees understand that it is part of their job to make recommendations when they can see areas for improvement.
These control measures should be listed on your SDSs.
Explain that Engineering Controls are changes in machinery, work operations or plant layout that reduce or eliminate the hazard such as ventilation controls, process enclosures, hoods, isolation and the like.
Explain that Administrative Controls are practices such as good housekeeping procedures, safe work practices, personal and medical monitoring, shortened shifts or changed work schedules that will avoid fatigue or carpal tunnel injuries.
Explain that Personal Protective Equipment consists of safety glasses, goggles, face shields, earplugs, respirators, gloves, hoods, boots and full body suits.
Step 2: Review each hazardous chemical covering them one at a time. An example would be PVC Cement covering the following:
❑ Where PCV Cement is found on the List of Hazardous Chemicals and explain all of the information that the employee must understand.
❑ The SDS and explain all of the information that the employee must understand.
❑ The Labeling for PVC Cement and explain all of the information that the employee must understand.
❑ How to Control Workplace Exposures to PVC Cement.
The same will be done for every hazardous chemical used in your workplace.
5. Written Emergency Action Plan—Make sure you have done the following:
❑ Established emergency controls
❑ Listed emergency phone numbers
❑ Developed evacuation plans
❑ Installed appropriate alarm systems
❑ Designed reporting and shut-down procedures
❑ First-aid and bloodborne pathogen procedures
❑ Emergency personal protection and equipment plans
❑ Include training on this emergency action plan for employees.
6. Documentation of employee/supervisor training
❑ Have each employee sign and date an outline of the above training to prove that you have given that employee completed training.
❑ Follow up and evaluate your training program to make sure employees know how to handle the chemicals and that they are using them and applying the training you have given them.
Sample Training Agenda for Employees
_____________________________________
(Company Name)
____________________________________
(Date)
I. Right-to-Know and Hazardous Communication Standard
• Summary of the standards
• Employer and employee rights and responsibilities
• Employees that must be trained
II. Know the hazards in your workplace
• Define hazardous chemicals, physical hazards and health hazards
• Explain the following documents and how to use them:
• List of Hazardous Chemicals
• Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (GHS)
• Labeling Requirements
• Methods of Controlling Workplace Exposures
• Review each hazardous chemical covering information contained in each of the above documents
III. Written emergency action plans
IV. Training documentation and re-evaluation
Lockout/Tagout
Suggestions for Energized Equipment and Lockout/Tagout Safety Rules
Anytime an employee is working on a piece of equipment that may be energized, our lock out/tag out procedure must be followed. Lock boxes with proper instructions on use and documentation will be provided at each job. All live electrical work over 50 V must be approved by management and must follow the rules established by OSHA and NFPA 70E. A qualified individual must perform the live line work.
Energized service equipment with 277 volts or greater should not be worked on alone.
No apprentice can work on energized 277/ 480-volt systems without direct supervision from a journeyman.
Only authorized employees should perform lock out procedures and remove locks and tags. Electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal and mechanical systems should be locked or tagged out if necessary.
The following steps will help keep accidents from occurring:
1. Think through the entire procedure and identify all parts of any systems that need to be shut down. Locate switches, valves, or other devices that may need to be locked out.
2. Inform other employees working on the equipment when and why you’re shutting down the system.
3. Locate all power sources. This includes stored energy in springs or hydraulic systems.
4. Neutralize all power at its sources. Disconnect electricity and block any movable parts. Release or block spring energy. Drain or restrain all hydraulic and pneumatic lines. Lower suspended parts to rest positions.
5. Lock out all power sources. Use lock designed only for this purpose. Use a durable tag that includes your name and the time, date and department.
6. Measure voltage with a known working voltmeter, when you are in contact with system.
7. Test operating controls. Test all controls to make sure the power is off.
8. Be sure every control is in the "off" position before beginning any necessary maintenance or repairs.
9. Make any necessary repairs.
10. Tools should be removed from equipment and machine guards are back in place. Notify other workers that the machines are working and back in place. Remove locks and restore energy. Restart equipment only after all other workers are at a safe distance away.
Locking out and isolating the power source can be done by:
1. Equipment, machines, or processing main disconnect switches shall be turned off and locked in the off position only after the electrical power is shut off at the point of operation control. Failure to follow this procedure may cause arcing and an explosion.
2. A machine connected to over a 50V source of power by a plug-in cord shall have a locking device applied to the plug attached to the cord leading to the machine to be considered locked out.
4. After locking out the power source, the employee shall try the equipment, machine or process control by use of appropriate test equipment to help determine that the energy isolation has been effective.
5. An employee who is assigned to a job and upon arrival finds an "Equipment Lock," "Adaptor," and "Danger Tag" affixed to the equipment shall take the following action:
a. Affix his/her personal lock to the "Equipment Adaptor"
b. Determine who placed the equipment out of service and contact all parties who have locks on the equipment to determine if the assignment to be performed would affect their safety. The assignment will proceed only if safe to do so.
c. Try the controls to ensure no unintended motion will occur before starting work or qualified personnel shall test the equipment, machine or process by use of appropriate test equipment to determine that the energy isolation has been effective. (Such testing equipment is only to be employed by trained, qualified personnel.)
6. When safety blocks are required they shall be used in conjunction with the lock out steps, not as a substitute.
Removal of locks and restoring of power source:
1. Power may be turned on when it is required to perform tests or adjustments. All of the rules pertaining to removing locks and restoring power shall be followed. The equipment, machine or process shall again be locked out if it is necessary to continue work after completing the test or adjustments.
2. If the employee leaves the job before its completion, such as job reassignment or shift change, the employee shall remove his/her personal lock and adaptor and replace it with an "Equipment" lock and adaptor. In addition, the employee will attach a "Danger Tag" indicating the reason the equipment is locked out (should more than one employee be assigned to the job, the last employee removing his/her lock will be responsible for affixing the "Equipment" lock, adaptor and the "Danger Tag.")
3. Upon completion of work, each employee will remove his/her lock, rendering the machine operable when the last lock is removed.
4. The employee responsible for removing the last lock, before doing so, shall assure that all guards have been replaced, the equipment, machine or process is cleared for operation, and appropriate personnel notified that power is being restored. This employee is also responsible for removing the "Equipment" lock and returning it to the supervisor’s office.
Emergency removal of safety lock:
1. Plant management will be authorized to remove an employee's lock under the following conditions:
a. Receipt of a written request signed by the appropriate department supervisor that shall state the reason the employee is not able to remove the lock.
b. The supervisor is responsible for making certain all the requirements for restoring power are followed.
Check manufacturer's guidelines for additional safety information or contact a competent professional.
These guidelines may be altered to meet the individual business needs of the company.
LOCKOUT PROCEDURE
CHECK OUT
Person Using Lock Name:
Check Out Month/Day/Yr: ______________________ Time:
Installed On Equipment Equipment Name:
Lock Number Number:
Signature:
LOCKOUT PROCEDURE
CHECK IN
Person Using Lock Name:
Check In Month/Day/Yr: ______________________ Time:
Installed On Equipment Equipment Name:
Lock Number Number:
Signature:
Sample Rules for Confined Space Safety
A confined space is any area that:
• Has a limited opening for entry or exit that can be as small as 18 inches
• Is an area that is difficult to move through
• Open topped such as pits and excavations
• May require ladders or hoists to enter and exit
Confined spaces may have unfavorable natural ventilation:
• Not enough oxygen
• Deadly gases trapped inside
• Too much oxygen, which can increase the chances of an explosion
Confined spaces are not designed for continuous worker occupancy.
A "permit required confined space" is a confined space with at least one of the following characteristics:
1. Hazardous atmosphere
• Levels of flammable gas or vapor that are over 10% of the substances lower flammable limit
• Combustible dust at or above the substances lower flammable limit
• Oxygen content below 19.5% or above 23.5%
2. Engulfment potential
3. Entrapping design
Employer Obligations
1. Evaluate the work place for “permit required confined spaces”
2. Take the following actions when a confined space is identified:
• Post signs or warnings
• Use barriers or other means to keep unauthorized personnel out
• Develop and use a written space entry program
• Conduct air monitoring and other tests to evaluate the hazards in each space
• State entry conditions that make the space acceptable for entry
• Ventilate or otherwise eliminate the space’s hazards before allowing entry
3. Entry into a confined space is not allowed unless there is a signed permit that identifies:
• The space to be entered
• Purpose, date, length of stay
• Name of workers allowed to enter
• Name of attendant
• Name of entry supervisor
• Acceptable entry conditions
• Equipment to be used in the space
• Available emergency and rescue services and their phone numbers
• Hazards of the space
• Results of initial and periodic testing
• Measures used to isolate the space and eliminate or control the hazard
• Additional permits that may relate to the space
• Any other special employee limitations
4. Test to help ensure that conditions are acceptable. Testing must be done in this sequence:
• Oxygen content
• Combustible gases and vapors
• Toxic gases and vapors
5. Provide at least one attendant.
6. Develop and implement a rescue and emergency system.
7. Coordinate procedures when a contractor or another employee is involved with a confined space.
8. Review the confined space program annually.
Entry Supervisor Duties
1. Help ensure that testing, equipment and permit requirements are completed before signing the permit and allowing entry
2. Be familiar with the space's hazards
3. Terminate the permit
4. Help ensure rescue and emergency services are available.
Entrant Duties
1. Know the hazards of the space
2. Know what equipment to use and how to use it
3. Use proper personal protective equipment
4. Have a rescue retrieval line attached to a fixed point outside the space. If the space is five feet or more deep, the line must be attached to a mechanical device.
5. Stay alert to problems
Attendant Duties
1. Maintain a count of who is in the space
2. Keep unauthorized personnel out
3. Order immediate evacuation if the attendant's duties cannot be performed safely
4. Summon emergency and rescue services
5. Stay in contact with the employee in the confined space
Other Safety Tips
1. Plan the job
2. Assemble tools and equipment ahead to help eliminate trips in and out of the confined space
3. Keep the space ventilated
4. Turn water, steam, heat and power off (as applicable)
5. Don't take food, drink, cigarettes or matches into the confined space
6. Don't enter if you are under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medications
7. Don't enter if you are not feeling well
Before you Enter
1. Always test the air before entry for:
a. combustibility,
b. adequate oxygen levels, and then for
c. toxic air hazards.
When testing:
a. Test the area near the entry before opening the space to test further.
b. Be sure to test the air inside the space from top to bottom. Some hazardous gases float at the top of the space while others sink to the bottom.
c. If pretests find hazards you are unsure of or cannot protect against adequately, do not proceed. Contact your supervisor immediately.
d. Depending upon conditions, continuous or periodic testing may be needed to insure the safety of the person in the confined space.
Unless the air is ventilated or has no potential hazards, a portable self-contained breathing device should be used. If the entrance is too small, an airline mask should be used and employee entering the space will also carry a 5 to 15 minute escape respirator in case something happens to the air tube.
2. Eye, hearing and protective clothing will be used if determined to be needed.
3. Where possible, use ventilating equipment to maintain an oxygen level of a least 19.5% and to keep toxic gases and vapors within OSHA prescribed levels.
4. Use lockouts and tags to prevent any startups while person is working in confined space. Also make sure to cut off any steam, water, gas, power lines or any other hazardous potential that enter the confined space.
5. Only safe, grounded, explosion-proof equipment will be used in the area.
Rescues
1. A minimum of one person must always be outside to summon help or offer help.
2. This attendant will be equipped with the proper breathing equipment, trained in first aid and CPR.
3. The attendant will be in continuous contact with person inside confined space by radio, phone or visual.
4. If an emergency arises or there is another reason to enter the space, the attendant must not enter until additional help arrives.
5. A full body harness and lifeline attached to a block and tackle will be attached to the person in the space. A single person will be able to use that for a rescue. A rope tied to the person is inadequate since a single person could not use it without help.
Notes: For more information, see OSHA CFR Title 29, Part 1910.146, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
List of Safety Rules
Review the list of rules and determine which apply to your company. Then you can go directly to those rules and start customizing them for your company.
Description
1. Alcohol
2. Back
3. Blood
4. Driving
5. Electrical
6. Emergency Preparedness Plan
7. Ergonomics
8. Fall Protection
9. Fire / fire extinguishers
10. Fork lifts
11. General
12. Ladders
13. Lifting
14. Office
15. PPE Body
16. PPE Ears
17. PPE Eyes
18. PPE Feet
19. PPE General
20. PPE Hand
21. PPE Head
22. PPE Information for the owner
23. PPE Respirators
24. Security
25. Scaffold
26. Site
27. Slips and falls
28. Tools
29. Trenching
Alcohol Testing Required
By the Dept. of Transportation
Federal Rule effective January 1, 1995
While alcohol testing is not a required part of the AWAIR Safety Program, you may want to include it as part of your hazard control program. The following information is included to help you write your rules. As of January 1, 1995, organizations with 50 or more employees must give all commercial driver employees breathalyzer tests. On January 1, 1996, all employers must give breathalyzer tests to all commercial drivers. This applies to workers who drive trucks, worker transportation vans or any commercial vehicle and includes those who do not cross state lines as well as those who do.
Congress required the following testing when they passed the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act in 1991:
A. A driver showing blood alcohol levels of more than .04 percent will be considered in violation and (1) must cease work immediately, and (2) must go to an alcoholism counselor for evaluation.
B. A driver showing blood alcohol levels of between .02 and .04 percent cannot be allowed to drive for 24 hours.
A company must do the following kinds of testing:
1. Pre-employment: Before a person is hired or after they have been offered the job but before they actually start driving.
2. Transfers: Before or after a current employee has been offered a transfer or promotion to a safety-sensitive driver position.
3. Post-Accident: Any driver whose actions could have contributed to an accident will be given a breathalyzer test for a moving violation and for fatal accidents even if the driver isn't ticketed.
4. Reasonable suspicion: When behavior that is characteristic of alcohol prohibited over use is noticed by a supervisor or company official.
5. Random: Breathalyzers will be conducted on a random unannounced basis before, during or just after performing a safety-sensitive duty.
6. Return-to-duty and follow-up: When an employee who was in violation of prohibited alcohol conduct standards returns to work, at least six unannounced follow up tests must be conducted during the first 12 months after a driver returns to safety-sensitive driving work.
7. Random testing on 25 percent of their drivers yearly.
• If no violations are found after two years, random testing can be lowered to 10 percent of their transportation workers.
• If violations go above 1 percent in any year, 50 percent of the covered employees must be randomly tested during the next year.
Notes: For additional safety information contact the Minnesota office of the U. S. Department of Transportation at 612-290-3260, a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
Sample Rules for Back Safety
1. Bring the item as close to your body as possible before you lift it.
2. Put your feet about shoulder width apart with one foot slightly in front of the other.
3. Bend your knees to a comfortable degree and push up from the knees. Never bend at the waist. Your stronger leg muscles will bear more of the weight and your chances of injuring weaker back muscles is greatly diminished.
4. Always lift straight up slowly and smoothly in a continuous motion. Avoid jerky movements that can cause injuries.
5. Avoid twisting motions while carrying a heavy item as it can put your back in a vulnerable position.
6. Putting your load down is as important as picking it up. Use the same technique. Slowly and smoothly lower the load by keeping the back as straight as possible and bending at the knees so your stronger leg muscles bear most of the weight.
7. Always make sure the load is balanced.
8. Carry the load at arm length avoiding lifting or carrying items above your head or on the side of your body.
9. If the load is too heavy for you to carry comfortably, get help. Never carry what can be placed on a dolly, pushcart or other moving device.
10. Be prepared. Always check the floor for slippery or uneven spots and move any obstacles out of your path--before lifting and moving your load.
11. Back belts are no longer recommended by OSHA. Instead, workers with cardiovascular problems should avoid wearing them since they tend to raise worker's blood pressure during use. Instead of using belts, do blood pressure screening and an ergonomic assessment of the job.
Notes: For additional safety information, check manufacturers guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Bloodborne Pathogen Safety
(Company name) will designate first aid responders and train them in this OSHA standard. While Good Samaritan acts performed by undesignated employees are not covered by the OSHA standard, employers may want to make sure all of their employees receive training in the dangers of bloodborne pathogens and exposure control.
Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood that can cause disease in humans such as the AIDS virus, hepatitis B virus and the like. It is easy to become exposed to these when you are giving first aid help to others.
You are exposed when blood, urine, vomit, body fluids or other potentially infectious material comes in contact with your eyes, mouth, any open sores or mucus membranes in your body. While giving first aid is a life-giving thing to do, you could get a potentially fatal disease from this exposure if you don't protect yourself.
1. Employees will do whatever it takes to stop exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials when providing first aid. Employees will not touch any fluids unless you use plastic gloves or other non-absorbent protective materials such as plastic.
2. Employees will wash their hands immediately after removing gloves or other protective equipment and after any hand contact with blood or potentially infectious fluids.
3. (Company name) will provide antiseptic cleansers for employees to use if a sink isn't available for hand washing. If employee uses an antiseptic cleanser, s/he will wash with soap and water as soon as possible.
4. Workers will always safely dispose of any personal protective equipment used in the process of giving first aid safely so no one else will be exposed to it.
5. Upon exposure to a bloodborne pathogen, (Company name) requires that an immediate and confidential medical evaluation be conducted.
a. This evaluation must document how the exposure occurred, identify and test the source individual if possible, test the exposed employees blood if consent is obtained, provide counseling and evaluate any reported illness.
b. The medical professional doing the exposure assessment must be provided with all relevant data needed to complete the employee's evaluation.
c. Hepatitis B vaccine should be given immediately after an exposure to any first aid provider who has experienced an exposure to blood. (Employees who refuse to be vaccinated must sign a form declining vaccination and be provided with vaccination if they change their minds at a later date.)
Notes: For more information see OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030, manufacturer’s guidelines, a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Driver’s Hazard Report
|Vehicle: |Mileage Reading: |
|ITEM |OK |Repairs Needed |
|Glass | | | | |Tires & Wheels |
|Fire Extinguishers | | | | |Coupling |
|Fuses - Electrical | |
Sample Rules for Driving Safety
1. All employees who operate a licensed vehicle on behalf of the company or who operates a vehicle owned by the company--must maintain a current driver’s license as required by Federal or State regulations.
2. Transportation of non-employee passengers in company vehicles is prohibited.
3. Use of company vehicles by non-employees or unqualified employees is prohibited, unless permission has been given by your supervisor.
4. All drivers are required to inspect their vehicles __________________(daily/weekly). A vehicle check list will be provided to all drivers and must be turned in after your inspection _________________(daily/weekly).
5. Drivers must keep vehicles clean on the inside and outside.
6. All drivers must obey all traffic laws.
• All traffic fines are the responsibility of the driver.
• You are required to report all citations to your supervisor in writing.
• Repeated violations are cause for disciplinary action, including suspension and/or dismissal.
7. Drivers will wear seat belts at all times.
8. Drivers when they leave a vehicle unattended will have the keys removed, brakes set, windows rolled up and the doors locked.
9. Under NO circumstances can an employee drive under conditions that impair their senses.
• Consumption of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs is grounds for immediate dismissal whether reporting for work or while on the job.
• If anyone is taking prescribed medication which may affect their ability to perform their duties safety, they must notify their supervisor when returning to work.
10. Drivers must report all incidents involving damage to company property, property of others, personal injury of employee or to others to the safety coordinator or supervisor immediately. Failure to report any accident involving a company vehicle is grounds for termination.
11. No radar equipment is permitted in any company vehicle.
12. Drivers will extend courtesy to other motorists. The vehicle and you are a rolling billboard for your company. It is your responsibility to create a good image.
13. All drivers will use good defensive driving techniques while operating company vehicles.
14. Any employee in charge of a company vehicle is also responsible for all tools and equipment assigned to that vehicle.
15. The company will equip all vehicles with an appropriate fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
• Employee is responsible for turning in fire extinguisher every January for testing.
• Employee is responsible for turning in the first aid kit when it needs replenishing.
16. Employees who violate these safety rules are subject to disciplinary action.
Notes: For additional safety information, check manufacturer’s guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them current. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Controlling Electrical Hazards
See also NFPA 70E most recent edition
Training
Employees must be aware of and (company name) will train them about the electrical hazards to which they will be exposed.
Maintenance employees should be qualified electricians who have been well instructed in lockout and tagging procedures.
Insulation
Before employees prepare to work with electric equipment, check the insulation before making a connection to a power source to be sure there are no exposed wires. The insulation of flexible cords, such as extension cords, is particularly vulnerable to damage.
Circuit conductors must be insulated to prevent people from coming into accidental contact with voltage. The insulation will be suitable for the voltage and existing conditions such as temperature, moisture, oil, gasoline or corrosive fumes. All factors must be evaluated before a proper insulation choice is made.
Guarding
Live parts of electric equipment operating at 50 volts or more must be guarded against accidental contact. (Company name) will guard live parts by:
• locating in a room, vault, or similar enclosure accessible only to qualified people;
• using permanent, substantial partitions or screens to exclude unqualified people;
• locating on a suitable balcony, gallery or platform elevated and arranged to exclude unqualified persons; or
• elevation of 8 feet or more above the floor.
(Company name) will mark entrances to rooms and other guarded locations containing exposed live parts with conspicuous warning signs forbidding unqualified people to enter.
Indoor electric installations that are over 600 volts and are open to unqualified people must be made with metal-enclosed equipment or enclosed in a vault or area controlled by a lock. Equipment must be marked with appropriate caution signs.
Grounding
(Company name) will make sure that all appropriate workers understand grounding and how to check for it and acquire it. Employees with any doubts will contact supervisor immediately.
Grounding is normally a secondary protective measure that creates a low-resistance path to the earth and substantially reduces the possibility of accidents when used in combination with other safety measures.
A "service or system ground", where a "neutral or grounded conductor" is grounded at the generator or transformer and again at the service entrance is the building, is primarily designed to protect machines, tools and insulation against damage.
An "equipment ground" must be provided for further protection to workers by providing another path from the tool or machine through which the current can flow.
Circuit protection devices
Automatic circuit protection devices such as fuses, circuit breakers (used primarily for the protection of conductors and equipment) and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) (used in high-risk areas such as wet locations and construction sites) are used in case of a ground-fault overcurrent.
Overhead Lines
If work is to be done near overhead power lines, the lines must be de-energized and grounded by the owner or operator of the lines or other protective measures (such as guarding or insulating the lines) must be provided before work is started.
Unqualified employees and mechanical equipment must stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. If the voltage is over 50,000, clearance should be at least 4 inches for each additional 10,000 volts.
When mechanical equipment is being operated near overhead lines, employees standing on the ground may not contact the equipment unless it is located so that the required clearance cannot be violated even at maximum reach of the equipment.
Employees who work constantly and directly with electricity must use the personal protective equipment required for the jobs they perform. This equipment may consist of rubber insulating gloves, hoods, sleeves, matting, blankets, line hose and industrial protective helmets.
Employees must use tools that are designed and constructed to withstand the voltages and stresses to which they are exposed when handling energized conductors.
When work is performed around energized lines, employees will follow these basic procedures:
• Have the line de-energized.
• Ensure that the line remains de-energized by using some type of lockout and tagging procedure.
• Use insulated protective equipment.
• Keep a safe distance from energized lines.
Notes: For more information see OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 and 1910.331-335, manufacturer’s guidelines, a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Injuries and Emergency Situations
1. (Company name) will post local emergency numbers near the phone at each job site.
Medical facilities near the main office are: ____________________________________
Phone______________________
Contact:_____________________________________________________
Ambulance:__________________________________ Phone____________
Medical facilities near the main office are: ____________________________________
Phone______________________
Contact:_____________________________________________________
Ambulance:__________________________________ Phone____________
2. Employees must report all injuries IMMEDIATELY to the job supervisor.
The supervisor is then responsible to report the injury to the office and to complete appropriate forms.
(Company name) must report to OSHA within eight (8) hours of occurrence:
• All fatalities involving one or more people and
• Accidents involving three or more people
3. If job site is more than six minutes from an appropriate medical facility, (Company name) will make sure one person on each crew will be trained in first aid. The names of these people are:
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
4. Employees working alone on a job site, will do one of the following:
• Carry a cellular phone with him/her at all times.
• Call in every two hours to let the office know s/he is safe.
5. (Company name) will make sure first aid kits are located in each company vehicle and in the main office in the ____________________________________.
Samples Rules for Emergency Preparedness
Notification of Emergency Warning
1. Workers receiving notification of a possible disaster (fire, tornado, earthquake, bomb threat, hazardous chemical spill, and the like) will immediately notify their supervisor.
2. Workers will notify other employees through the use of _________________ (intercom, alarm system, paging system, other).
3. Upon hearing the above warning employees will, if time permits, shut off power to equipment being operated and proceed to ________________________evacuation site or safe assembly area.
4. (Company name) will post a map for all evacuation sites, safe assembly areas and the proper route of exit ________________________(location of map).
5. With the exception of fire or bomb, employees will evacuate building when authorized by the Emergency Control Committee or ranking member of management.
6. (Company name) will place a list of all emergency phone numbers by each telephone.
7. If an emergency occurs, the ______________________________ (office manager, ranking member of management present, other designated position) will be responsible for contacting the appropriate agency.
8. Neighboring businesses will be contacted by ___________________________ (designated person) to provide mutual aid and warnings of natural disasters.
Emergency Control Committee
1. The Emergency Control Committee consists of the following people:
a.
b.
c.
The ranking member on the committee is: _________________________________
2. During an emergency situation, the ranking member of management will have the final authority to coordinate procedures and amend, modify or supersede any provisions of this plan in order to ensure employee safety.
Utility Controls
1. (Company name) will tell all employees where the controls for shutting off the gas, electricity and water services into the building are located and how to turn them off.
Water:________________________________________________________
Gas:__________________________________________________________
Electricity:_____________________________________________________
Listing of Hazardous Materials
1. (Company name) has a list of hazardous materials and storage locations, Safety Data Sheets cataloged for all hazardous materials, and training information to explain proper material handling in the Right-To-Know section of this safety manual.
2. (Company name) has placed telephone listings of all emergency telephone numbers by each phone.
Notes:
Weather Emergency Tips for tornados are to:
• Monitor latest weather advisories
• Move personnel to designated safe assembly area
• Open any windows or doors to equalize pressure
• After tornado passes, restore calm and check for injuries and damage.
For additional safety information check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them current. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Ergonomics
These rules are not a current OSHA requirement as of this time. However, OSHA is including ergonomics in its inspections.
Ergonomics help to adapt the job to eliminate potential injuries associated with repetitive overuse of muscles, bad posture and repeated motion. This is done by designing special tools, lighting, equipment and rotating tasks.
OSHA is looking at enacting the Ergonomic Protection Standard Proposal which would require employers to do the following:
• Respond to employee reports of risk factors in the workplace or for musculoskeletal disorders by inspecting the process and equipment. If there is reason for concern, contact a specialist in ergonomics who can advise changes and determine if employee needs a medical inspection for any injury.
• Review records to determine if any musculoskeletal disorders have occurred in the past two years.
• Determine the extent of any risks by examining jobs where risk factors are present.
• Identify and fix jobs having moderate to high risks.
• Rotate employees regularly to do different jobs if they are doing repetitive motion work on a regular basis.
• Implement appropriate control measures.
• Institute employee involvement and training.
• Provide medical management.
• Establish an evaluation process to assess the effectiveness of the employer's job improvement process.
Though OSHA does not have a current standard on ergonomics, they can use Section 5 (a) (1) of the General Duty Clause to give citations and there is an Ergonomic Inspection Instruction compliance directive on (cumulative trauma disorder) CTD (CPL 2.13, Jan. 1993) provides guidance for OSHA inspectors. Compliance officers will collect information by:
• videotaping work stations,
• performing worker surveys with at least 75% of workers to assure correctness of OSHA 300 log,
• calculating incidence rates using the following formula (Incidence Rate = number of incidence per year TIMES 200,000 hours DIVIDED BY total hours worked).
The following list provides guidance in doing a self-inspection:
• Data collection sources are OSHA 300 log, number of workers in each job in each department, and symptom surveys.
• Tools needed are a tape measure, scale, video cameras and recorder.
• Calculations use incidence rate and survey statistics.
• Education and training provided to employees.
• Determine the abatement/ergonomic controls.
You can obtain this directive by contacting the U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, 133 Portland Street, Boston, MA 02114, Ergonomic Inspection Instruction (CPL 2.13).
Some things to look for when doing a workplace analysis are:
• Uncomfortable positions and movements that are repeated often such as:
• standing or sitting in static positions for long periods
• continuous bending at the waist
• lifting below the knuckles
• lifting above the shoulders
• twisting while lifting
• lifting objects that are to heavy or too big
• reaching above the shoulders
• reaching behind the back
• excessive bending or twisting of the wrist
• continued elevation of the elbow
• excessive repetition
• prolonged activities
• forceful motions especially with hands and wrists
• Continuous contact with work surfaces such as the edges of equipment
• Temperature extremes
• Hand tools not designed for the work
• Vibration from power tools
• Lack of support such as:
• from improper seating equipment
• seating without adjustable chairs
• footrests
• slippery surfaces that provide poor footing
Look for any combination of one or more of these situations that could cause injury and eliminate where possible. Where not possible:
• rotate the work so people are exposed for short periods of time,
• redesign the work area to eliminate the awkward motions,
• purchase equipment that will ease or eliminate the problem such as adjustable equipment, foot rests, etc.
• make sure hand tools are the correct size, and
• get lots of employee feedback
Sample Rules for Ergonomic Safety
1. Employee will use the correct tool when doing a job.
2. Employee will use proper lifting techniques trained on in this program.
3. Employee will use tools of the proper size to fit their hand and right/left hand preference.
4. Employee will notify supervisor immediately if s/he is doing work that is causing discomfort or pain so the situation can be corrected.
5. Employee will use equipment as instructed by supervisor and manufacturer.
6. (Company name) will inspect for ergonomic hazards and correct them.
7. Employee will cooperate in using proper ergonomic techniques.
Notes: For further information check manufacturer’s instructions, contact a qualified safety professional or your OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Fall Protection
1. (Company name) will determine whether walking/working surfaces are structurally capable of supporting workers safely.
For example, when an employee is required to work from any elevation, the competent person conducting the safety analysis will ask:
• Is the employee protected from a fall?
• What measures must be taken to protect the employee at the elevated work station?
(Company name) will keep written records of analysis.
2. Guardrails, nets or fall arrest systems must be used to protect workers from falling in the following situations:
a. Workers on walking/working surfaces with unprotected sides or edges six feet or higher above a lower level (except where there is an entrance to a ramp, stairway, or fixed ladder).
b. Workers constructing or working near leading edges at six feet or higher above a lower level.
c. Workers near wall openings six feet or higher above lower levels and less than 39 inches above the walking/working surface.
3. Guardrails or personal fall arrest systems must be used to protect workers in hoist areas.
4. Hole covers, guardrails or personal fall arrest systems must be used to protect workers from falling more than six feet through holes (including skylights).
5. Personal fall arrest systems, nets or positioning devices must be used to protect workers on the face of formwork or reinforcing steel.
6. Guardrails, fences or barricades must be used to protect workers on the edge of excavations deeper than six feet when excavations are not easily visible.
7. Guardrails or equipment guards must be used to protect workers less than six feet above dangerous equipment from falling into that equipment.
8. Guardrails, personal fall arrest systems or nets must be used to protect workers six feet or higher above dangerous equipment to protect them from fall hazards.
9. Guardrail systems with toeboards, safety net systems and/or personal fall arrest systems must be used to protect workers on steep roofs.
10. Guardrail, safety net or personal fall arrest systems or combination warning line and guardrail system or combination warning line and safety net system or combination warning line and personal fall arrest system or combination warning line and safety monitoring system must be used to protect workers on low-sloped roofs.
11. Where workers are exposed to falling objects, the employer must have each worker wear a hard hat and must:
• erect toeboards, screens or guardrails to prevent objects from falling,
• erect a canopy structure, keep objects away from the edge of the higher level, or
• barricade the area to which objects could fall and keep objects away from the edge of the higher level.
• if it is not possible to use toeboards, employers shall determine the fall radius of materials on an open-sided platform and place physical barriers outside of the fall radius to keep workers and machines outside of danger zones.
12. Guardrails: Guardrail fall prevention systems shall be used except where employees are working from suspended scaffolds or work platforms, where bodybelt/harness/lanyard/lifeline combinations may be the only workable option. Requirements for guardrails are that they:
a. Must be between 39 and 45 inches high and capable of with-standing a force of at least 200 pounds applied within two inches of the top edge in any outward or downward direction. With 200 pounds of downward force the top edge of the guardrail must not deflect to less than 39 inches.
b. Must be surfaced in way that will prevent punctures, lacerations and snags.
c. Must have top rails and mid rails.
d. Must not overhang terminal posts unless an overhang would not create a projection hazard.
e. Must not use steel and plastic banding.
f. Must be at least one quarter inch nominal diameter or thickness.
When guardrails are used:
• in hoisting areas; a chain, gate or removable guardrail section must be placed across access opening when hoisting operations are not taking place.
• at holes, they must be erected on all unprotected sides or edges.
• to protect holes which are used for passage of materials, not more than two sides can be protected by removable guardrail.
Midrails, screen, mesh or intermediate vertical members must:
• be installed between the top edge of the guardrail and the walking/working surface when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches high, and
• must be capable of withstanding a force of at least 150 pounds applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the midrail or other member.
13. Safety nets must:
• be installed as close as possible, but not more than 30 feet below the walking/ working surface.
• must extend outward from the outermost projection of the work surface (see regulations for distances).
• be tested by dropping a 400 pound 30-32 inch diameter bag of sand into the nest from the highest walking/working surface (but not less than 42 inches). When it is unreasonable to perform this test on a net, the employer or a designated competent person must certify that the net and net installation are in compliance with this standard.
• be inspected at least once a week and defective nets and parts must be removed from service and replaced promptly.
14. Body belts are not acceptable as part of a fall protection system effective 1/1/95.
15. Lanyards and vertical life lines must have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.
16. Personal fall arrest systems, when stopping a fall, must:
• limit the maximum arresting force on the worker to 1,800 pounds when used with a body harness.
• limit the maximum arresting force on the worker to 900 pounds when used with a body belt.
• be rigged so that the worker can neither fall more than six feet nor contact any lower level.
17. Positioning devices must be rigged to prevent free falls of no more than two feet.
18. Warning lines must be erected around all sides of a roof work area.
19. Controlled access zones must be defined by a control line or other means that restricts access.
20. When using safety monitoring systems, a competent person must be used to monitor the safety of the workers.
21. The employer must provide training for each worker than may be exposed to fall hazards, and
• keep a written certification record to verify compliance with training requirements.
• provide retraining when workers do not have the understanding and skills required by initial training.
22. Only employees designated and trained may work in a controlled access zone (CAZ). No other employees may enter the CAZ.
23. If a fall or similar serious incident or near miss occurs, the employer will investigate to see if the fall protection plan needs to be changed. The employer will make any changes needed to prevent similar falls or incidents.
24. Employer will identify (and document) areas where conventional fall protection methods are infeasible (or why their use would create a greater hazard) and classify those areas as controlled access zones (CAZ) including:
• A plan prepared by a qualified person for each CAZ which will be:
• kept up to date
• changed only by a qualified person
• copied and maintained at the site
• Implementation under the supervision of a competent person.
• Monitoring of the CAZ by a trained person:
• able to recognize all hazards.
• with the authority to warn employees who are unaware of the hazard or who are acting unsafely.
• on the same walking/working surface, close enough to communicate orally with employees and within visual distance.
• who has no other responsibilities that can take their attention away from the monitoring function.
• Control lines marking the area, must be:
• flagged or clearly marked at not more than 6 foot intervals with highly visible materials.
• no lower than 39 inches and no higher than 45 inches from the work surface at any time.
Controlled access zones (CAZ) are permitted only in overhead bricklaying and related work, as part of a fall protection plan for leading edge (the edge of a floor, roof or form work for a floor or other walking/working surface which changes location as additional floor, roof, decking or formwork sections are placed, formed or constructed) work, pre-cast concrete work and residential construction work.
½- inch wire rope or equal safety railing must be used around temporary planked or temporary metal-decked floors during steel erection operations. Railing must be provided at leading edge if spreading stops for any significant time period. ½-inch synthetic or fiber robe is not acceptable as a required safety railing for steel erection operations.
CAZ are the rare exception and the owner or competent person must be able to show that fall protection would have created a greater hazard or absolutely was not possible.
Notes:
For additional safety information, check the manufacturers’ guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office. OSHA released new fall protection standards in August, 1994.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assuring the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
EXAMPLES OF NEED: A person was killed when he fell backwards from an unguarded balcony to the concrete 9-l/2 feet below. Falls from elevations accounted for 14% of all lost time accidents.
Sinco Safety Systems (1-800-243-6753) is a resource for fall protection systems (no endorsement intended or given).
Sample Rules for Fire / Fire Extinguisher Safety
Prevention is the best defense against fire.
Housekeeping
1. Employees will keep their areas clutter-free and will dispose of flammable materials safely and promptly.
2. Employees will store all flammable materials safely in appropriate containers and used with extreme care. If there is a dangerous spill or fumes, employees will get help and call in a professional immediately.
Emergency Procedures
1. In case of a fire too large to extinguish by hand with a fire extinguisher, employees will:
• Stay calm.
• Alert all of the other employees to leave the building immediately.
• All employees will immediately leave the building. The key danger is of suffocation so you must leave immediately.
• Be aware of smoke and poisonous fumes. If there is a lot of smoke, drop to the floor and crawl out as fast as possible. Once outside, get away from the smoke and fumes from the building immediately.
• Immediately go the nearest phone in a safe location and call 911.
2. If the fire is of a small enough size to be put out by a fire extinguisher, immediate use of the fire extinguishers will be employed by the worker(s). Employee will hold the extinguisher in an upright position, pull the pin and aim at the base (source) of the fire from about ten feet away.
Extinguishers
1. (Company name) will provide a fire extinguisher, rated not less than 2A, 20BC, will be provided for each 3,000 square feet of the building or major fraction thereof. Travel distance to the nearest fire extinguisher will not exceed 100 feet.
2. One or more fire extinguishers will be provided for each floor by (Company name). In multi-story buildings, at least one fire extinguisher will be posted adjacent to the stairway.
3. Fire extinguishers will be conspicuously located by (Company name) and readily accessible at all times.
4. (Company Name) will periodically inspected them (at least once a year) and make sure that they are maintained in operating condition.
5. Carbon tetrachloride and other toxic vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers are prohibited (Company name).
Notes:
Each fire extinguisher is considered professional equipment and its effectiveness in protecting property depends on knowing what it can and cannot do, how to use it, where to install it, how to maintain it, knowledge of classes or types of fires, what classes of fire the extinguisher is capable of extinguishing. The classes of fires are as follows:
• Class A: Fires in ordinary combustible materials
• Class B: Fires in flammable liquids, gases and greases
• Class C: Fires which involve energized electrical equipment
• Class D: Fires in combustible materials
For additional safety information, see OSHA CFR 1910.38 and 29 CFR 1910.157, check manufacturer's guidelines for additional safety information, contact a competent professional, or contact the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Fork Lift Drivers
The average fork lift weighs twice as much as a car. With a weight of 6,000 pounds and a capacity load of 16,000 pound load, tremendous damage can occur should a collision occur with a person or an object.
1. (Company name) requires all drivers to attend training.
2. (Company name) provides specific safety training for employees who work around fork lifts.
3. Only authorized employees who are fully trained and tested can drive fork lifts.
Authorized employees must know:
• safe and defensive driving rules
• safety inspections
• understand the correct uses of the equipment
• how to maintain, clean and secure the equipment
4. Drivers must comply with the following rules for operating fork lifts:
• Drive defensively.
• Watch for overhead obstructions when lifting a load or when moving a load.
• Keep to the right, signal turns and obey all speed limits.
• Cross railroad tracks at an angle other than a right angle.
• Slow down at all intersections and honk at blind intersections.
• When parking, make sure you are in a safe place where people will not need to move the lift or run into it accidentally. Make sure the forks are lowered, set the brakes, put it in neutral, shut the power off and remove the key or plug. Never park on an incline and, if you must, block the wheels carefully.
• Stay alert, never move with a load blocking your view and always know the direction of your forks, avoid oil and grease spots, avoid edges on loading docks.
• Pedestrians always have the right of way.
• Keep a buffer space of three vehicle lengths between you and other vehicles.
• No riders, towing or pushing are allowed.
• Keep arms and legs inside the fork lift at all times.
• No horse play. Never pass another vehicle in narrow aisles. Never race lifts. Travel slowly and do not make sudden turns. Fork lifts will tip if sudden turns are made at high speeds. Fork lifts are extremely dangers when they tip.
• Wear personal protective equipment when required such as restraining belts.
• When going from bright areas to dim areas, give your eyes time to adjust so you can see clearly before driving.
• Always set the brake and block the wheels of any lift or vehicle being loaded or unloaded.
• Always be sure you stop completely before raising or lowering a load. Never travel with a load raised high. Never travel with unloaded forks more than six inches off of the floor.
• Make sure the load is balanced and securely on the forks. When lifting pallets, make sure the fork lifts are all the way in and tilt the mast back for stability before moving. Do not move loads on broken pallets.
• Know the weight limits of your vehicle and never lift loads heavier than the capacity of the lift or loads that are not well balanced.
• When unloading, tilt the mast forward slightly.
• When driving on an incline, drive forward up the ramp and use reverse gear when driving down the ramp. This will avoid tipping forward.
• Only do the maintenance and repair work you are trained and authorized to do.
• Check your vehicle before using and do not drive if anything malfunctions.
• Make sure your brake pedal holds the lift solidly and does not slip under pressure.
• Make sure your emergency, parking and/or seat brake are working properly and will hold. Check the clutch.
• With the engine running:
• Make sure your steering wheel doesn't feel loose, squeal and that the wheel turns properly both ways to its stops.
• Check to make sure the hour meter, head, tail and warning lights are all operating.
• Make sure the fork pins are in place.
• Check cowling and body parts looking for anything that is loose, broken or worn including tires for amount of wear.
• Check the oil pressure gauge, water temperature, ammeter, horn, air cleaner, fan belt, hydraulic fluid level, battery water, fuel, oil level, radiator water, hydraulic controls and other controls.
• Check the hour meter, record it, and report the need for maintenance when it's time.
• If anything is not right, do not drive the vehicle. Report it to maintenance immediately.
Notes:
For more information see OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, manufacturer’s guidelines, a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for General Safety
1. Employees will follow the safe job procedures established and covered in this manual by (Company name).
2. Employees are to perform only jobs you have been assigned and properly instructed to perform.
3. Employees will wear the protective equipment required for your job, as established by your supervisor through job instruction. It's your responsibility to see that protective equipment is in good repair. Damaged equipment should be reported to your supervisor immediately.
4. Employees must report unsafe acts or unsafe conditions to your supervisor immediately.
5. Employees must report all accidents to your supervisor immediately whether anyone is hurt or not. In cases of injury, get first aid immediately.
6. Employees must keep all mechanical safeguards in position at all times.
7. Employees will put main switch in "off" position whenever making adjustments, when setting up jobs and when machine is to remain idle for any length of time. Don't allow machinery to operate unattended.
8. Employees will use only the machinery, equipment and tools you are qualified and authorized to use by the supervisor.
9. Employees will not engage in HORSEPLAY, such as scuffling, playing practical jokes or throwing articles at each other.
10. All machinery must be locked out and tagged when being repaired or maintained.
11. The covers on switch boxes and fuse stations are to be kept closed at all times.
12. Employees are not permitted to make repairs on any electrical device or equipment unless authorized to do so by supervisor. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IS NOT TO BE TAMPERED WITH IN ANY WAY.
13. No employee will be permitted to remove any guard installed over the point of operation, power transmission or moving parts without permission from the supervisor and then only after proper safety procedures have been followed.
14. Employees will never use compressed air for cleaning clothes, cooling or practical jokes. VIOLATION OF THIS RULE CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
15. Workers will not block fire extinguishers, sprinklers or fire exits by anything at any time.
16. Workers are not permitted to use flammable solvents in an open container. Flammables must be stored and handled in approved safety containers.
17. First aid will be administered only by the First-Aid Department or specifically authorized personnel. Under no circumstances shall any employee attempt to remove foreign objects from the eyes or ears of a fellow employee.
18. Employees cannot use any tools, machinery or equipment for the personal use of any employee, whether on company time or not.
19. Only qualified maintenance persons authorized by supervision are permitted to repair machinery and equipment.
20. Safety equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, shields, safety shores, hard toe shoes and the like shall be used at all times by all workers.
21. Employees must report all accidents to your immediate supervisor immediately. In all cases a written report of injury will be completed.
22. Employees will report any unsafe condition to your supervisor, who is responsible for having the condition corrected before you proceed with the job.
23. (Company name) will issue safety goggles and other personal protective equipment for your protection. Employees must use or wear the proper equipment at all times in accordance with instructions from employer and manufacturer.
24. Employees are required to wear appropriate work clothing and shoes.
25. Employees will wear safety glasses with side shields ___________________(at all times).
26. Employees will wear hard hats ______________________(at all times).
27. Workers will wear hard toe shoes ____________________(at all times) and shoes with thin or badly worn soles will be replaced immediately.
28. Employees will not consume liquor and/or drugs during working hours and are not allowed in the job site. Employees will not consume alcohol or drugs so that they report for work under the influence. If they do they may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
29. Employees will maintain good housekeeping at all times in the work area.
30. Employees will clean up all spills immediately.
31. Workers will store air lines, electrical cords or any other objects that could cause a hazard in a safe location when not in use.
32. Workers will keep work stations free of excess materials.
33. Employees will use only non-flammable solvents in the building. Flammable solvents are to be kept in approved containers and are used only when needed and in a safe manner.
34. Only authorized items, material, pictures, notices, etc. are to be placed on any wall, bulletin board, etc.
35. Employees will not use window sills storage areas for anything.
36. Workers will keep areas on, around, in front and over electrical controls or panels and fire extinguishers clear at all times.
37. Absolutely no fighting or horse play is allowed during work hours and/or on the job site.
38. Employees who violate these safety rules will be subject to disciplinary actions described in the enforcement section of this manual.
39. (Company name) will keep a copy of your AWAIR Safety Plan, Safety Data Sheets, state and federal posters on each job site and in the main office.
Notes: For more information contact a qualified safety professional or the OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Safe Use of Ladders
1. Employees will inspect all ladders making sure all working parts are in good working order before using. Workers will not use any ladder with broken rungs, side rails, rusted or loose fasteners, knots, damaged components or other defects. Workers will never make temporary repairs but may lubricate if necessary being careful not to get lubricant on rungs or hand grips.
2. Employees will bring defective ladders to their supervisor for a decision about destroying it or having it repaired.
3. Employees will clean ladders of all foreign materials such as wet paint, mud, snow, grease, oil, or the like before storing or using
4. Employees must keep metal ladders away from electrical circuits or wires as they conduct electricity and can cause serious and even fatal injuries. Employees will use ladders made of non-conductive material only when working around or near electricity.
5. Ladders are designed for one person only. Employees will use ladders only one person at a time and will never overload. Employees will check load limits of ladder before using.
6. Employees will never use ladders in high winds or storms.
7. Employees will not use ladders if you are in poor health, taking drugs, under the influence of alcohol or if physically unable to do the task.
8. While using ladders, employees will keep their shoes clean and use shoes with soles that grip. Leather shoes will not ever be used on a ladder.
9. Employees will never leave a ladder set up and unattended. It could fall and cause accidents.
10. Employees will set the ladder evenly and firmly before climbing. The bottom of a straight ladder should be set at a distance of about one-quarter of the ladders' length away from the wall it is leaning against.
11. Employees will never over-extend their body on a ladder. Employees must move the ladder when necessary to work in a safe manner.
12. When using a stepladder, employees will make certain it is always open and level on all four feet with the spreaders locked in place.
13. Workers will NEVER stand on the top of platform of a stepladder. Employees will select a ladder of the proper length to safely reach the desired height. Workers will not go beyond the point marked by the manufacturer for safe use. When in doubt, employee will ask supervisor.
14. Worker will always select a ladder of proper duty rating to support the combined weight of yourself and the materials you will be using. If you are unsure, ask your supervisor.
15. Employee will pay close attention to what you are doing when using a ladder as you are using it at your own risk.
16. Employees will get help in setting up ladders. The base of the ladder must be on a firm level surface. Employees will use ladder leveling devices if you are on uneven ground and place the ladder where access is unobstructed.
17. Employee will never place a ladder on unstable, loose or slippery surfaces; in front of unlocked doors or use as a scaffold.
18. Employee will secure the base section of the ladder before raising it to upright position and do not raise or lower with fly section extended. Extend and retract fly section only from the ground when no one is on the ladder.
19. Employees may never over extend a ladder and will observe the required minimum overlap of section as follows:
• 3-foot overlap for ladders up to and including 32 feet
• 4-foot overlap for ladders over 32 feet and up to and including 36 feet
• 5-foot overlap for ladders over 36 feet and up to and including 48 feet
• 6-foot overlap for ladders over 48 feet
20. When using a straight ladder, employees will:
• use the 4-to-1 rule when positioning the ladder against upper support surface making sure the ladder doesn't lean to the side and makes a 75-degree angle with the ground. To determine this, measure the distance along the rail between the top and bottom support points of the ladder. Divide this by 4 and the result will be the horizontal distance between the top and bottom support points. (1 foot horizontally for each 4 feet vertically)
• must erect the ladder about 3 feet beyond upper support point.
• use hooking devices on top of the ladder when appropriate.
• never lash two ladders together.
• never use as a scaffold base.
• tie off the top and bottom when using permanently or semi-permanently.
21. Job made ladders must be double cleat ladders when more than 25 people will be using it and can never be more than 25 feet in length.
22. Employees will check that top and bottom of ladder are properly supported and will make sure rung locks are engaged before climbing.
23. Workers will face ladder when climbing up or down, maintain a firm grip, and use both hands when climbing. Employees will keep both feet and one hand on the ladder when in use.
24. Workers will always get off the ladder to move it.
25. Employees will never climb from one ladder to another; straddle or sit on rungs; push or pull off to the side of the ladder; or walk or shift ladder while on it.
26. When storing ladders, employees will:
• Hang ladders on racks at intervals of 6 feet for support.
• Never store materials on ladders.
• Never drop or apply an impact load to the ladder.
• Securely support ladder while in transit.
• Never paint a wooden ladder. Treat with wood preservative.
• Protect wooden ladder from exposure to elements in a well ventilated area away from heat and moisture.
27. Fixed ladders must have fall protection if they are over 25 feet long and landing platforms for resting on long climbs.
Notes: For additional information, check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individually company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee retraining annually.
A scaffold or platform ladder is the only OSHA approved ladder.
Sample Rules for Safe Lifting and Material Handling
1. Employees will lift only when unavoidable. Always use mechanical help (pushcarts, conveyors, two wheeled carts, hoists, forklifts, etc.) to avoid lifting whenever possible.
When using lifting equipment:
a. Make sure the lifting equipment you are using is adequate for the size and weight of the load.
b. Check to make sure the equipment is in safe operating condition before using. If not, notify your supervisor immediately and lock or tag the equipment unusable.
c. Maintain all equipment in safe operating condition.
d. Use only equipment you are trained to use. If not trained, have someone who is trained do the moving.
2. Employees will NOT attempt lifting tasks if not accustomed to lifting or other vigorous exercise.
3. Employees will push when possible rather than pulling. Pushing runs less risk of back injury.
Plan and look before lifting and moving any object:
1. (Company name) will make sure all aisles and doorways are designated and permanently marked and kept clear to all unhindered passage if materials are moved through on a regular basis.
2. Employees will make certain there is adequate space, clear aisle ways.
3. Employees will keep floors clean, dry and free of slippery substances such as oil.
4. Employees will make certain aisles and doorways provide adequate clearance for the load you are moving.
5. Employees will plan for a place to set the load down before starting the move.
6. Employees will inspect for slivers, jagged or sharp edges, burrs, rough or slippery surfaces.
7. Employees will wipe off greasy, wet or dirty objects before trying to handle them.
8. Employees will keep hands free of oil and grease.
Employees will follow these lifting techniques:
• Bend from the knees—NEVER bend from the back.
• Get a good grip on the load by using the palms of your hands.
• Keep fingers away from pinch or shear points, especially when setting down.
• Get the load close to your body. The closer the load is to your spine, the less strain it exerts on your back.
• Test the load before handling it. If it appears too heavy, get help.
• Place your feet close to the load, put them far enough apart for stability and have one foot slightly ahead of the other and pointed in the direction of movement.
• Tighten your stomach muscles (so your abdominal muscles will support your back).
• Lift with your legs--they are much stronger than your back.
• Keep your back straight and your head up whether picking up or putting down.
NEVER:
• do awkward lifts,
• twist the back or bend sideways while lifting,
• lift at arm’s length,
• hesitate to ask for help,
• lift objects above shoulder level.
When handling pipe, lumber or other long objects, keep hands away from the ends to prevent them from being pinched. Carry long objects on your shoulder with the front end high, making sure you do not inadvertently hit a person or an object.
Employees will assure safety by:
• Separating and labeling containers of combustible or flammable liquids.
• Use pallets and shelving of proper strength to support the load.
• Hooks with safety latches will be used when hoisting materials and will use securing chains, ropes and slings that are adequate to support the load.
For additional safety information check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent professional or OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them current. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Office Safety
1. Fire Extinguishers will be provided by (Company name). Fire extinguishing equipment is located: _________________________________________________.
2. (Company name) will provide training on how to use fire extinguishers for new employees and periodically for current employees.
Employees will attend those training sessions and be aware of the locations of fire extinguishing equipment throughout the facility and/or site.
3. If a fire or disaster is noticed, the (Company name) Evacuation Plan is as follows:
• Immediately shout or set off alarm equipment to notify other employees to evacuate.
• Immediately go to a safe place and call (the appropriate emergency response number such as 911).
• If the fire or disaster is small and employee is confident s/he can handle it, use the proper extinguishing equipment. Under no circumstances is any employee to endanger themselves in this effort.
• Employees will make sure that all employees have left the endangered location by taking a roll call.
• If an employee is missing, immediately notify the trained professionals on site as to the missing person(s) and their likely location(s).
• If there is heavy smoke, drop to the floor and crawl quickly to the nearest exit. Often smoke is toxic and since it rises, the safest place is on the floor.
• Under no circumstances delay your exit from the building. Leave everything and go.
• Add other rules as you deem appropriate.
4. (Company name) will hold evacuation training. All employees will attend.
5. (Company name) will provide exit signs and emergency lighting as appropriate.
6. (Company name) requires good housekeeping by all workers.
• Employees will keep all aisles, doors, doorways, stairwells and exits open and clear to allow for easy travel and exit in event of an emergency.
• Employees will store rubbish and trash in proper cans and discard daily. Not doing this can endanger themselves and other workers.
• (Company name) will keep carpeting in good repair and employee will be assigned to vacuum regularly. Employee(s) noticing damage or need for cleaning will report this need immediately to supervisor.
• Employee(s) will be assigned to sweep and mop non-carpeted walking surfaces (weekly/daily) to prevent grease and dirt build up. Employee(s) will handle these duties promptly.
• If an employee notices damage, a need for cleaning, causes a spill or notices a spill; they will either do the work or contact their supervisor immediately. If another employee could be injured by leaving the spot unmonitored, they will watch the location and summon another employee to go for help.
• Employees will use signs and/or barriers immediately to warn of wet floors.
• Employees will not leave file drawers open and unattended.
• Employees will locate electrical cords safely out of the way to prevent any possibility of tripping.
• Employees will store items on racks and shelves only if they are stable and not overhanging or protruding so as to cause personal injury.
7. Employees will follow safe lifting and materials handling procedures covered under different rules in this safety manual.
8. Employees will refer to ladder safety rules described in this manual and use them. Employees will NEVER use chairs in place of the proper ladder.
9. (Company name) will provide chairs that are adjustable for different builds of people and for different tasks. Armrests for chairs will be low enough to fit the chair under the work surface so the user can get close enough to the work surface to use the chair backrest. Employees will use chairs that provide correct support, adjust them to fit their body build and tell their supervisor immediately if they have a concern or problem.
10. (Company name) will provide ergonomically correct furniture for people doing work at keyboards. Thin keyboards or keyboard palm rests will be used to minimize wrist deviation.
• Employees will use keyboards and palm rests correctly.
• Employees will take a short rest break after each hour of video display work.
• Employees will rotate work so they alternate other work between each hour of keyboard work.
11. (Company name) provides a first aid kit located _____________________.
Employees will follow procedures for bloodborne pathogen and first aid safety under those rules in this safety manual.
12. (Company name) will make sure that work areas are well lighted and provide drapes, blinds and computer screen guards to reduce glare when needed. Employer or supervisor will periodically inspect for needed changes in lighting.
Employees will reduce glare when necessary by lowering the lighting, using drapes, blinds and/or computer screen guards. Employee will tell supervisor immediately about any needed changes in lighting.
13. Hazardous Materials: (Company name) will train employees about hazardous substances and in proper handling and usage during Right-To-Know trainings.
Employees will follow employer and manufacturer instructions in purchasing inks, solvents and any other flammable or combustible liquids in small amounts and storing them safely.
14. (Company name) will keep available heating, air condition and ventilation systems in proper working order.
Employees charged with these responsibilities will handle them promptly and report any problems immediately.
Notes:
For additional safety information check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Personal Protection Equipment for the Body
Many hazards can threaten the torso; heat, fire, cuts, impacts and the like.
1. All employees will wear wool and specially treated cotton at all times while working. Duck, a closely woven cotton fabric, is good for light-duty protective clothing since it can protect against cuts and bruises on jobs where employees handle heavy, sharp, or rough material. They are fire-resistant and comfortable. Employees will not wear synthetic fabrics since they can cause increased burn damage to the skin in case of a fire. The minimum weight of the fabric is 11 ounces.
2. Long-sleeve shirts and pants will be worn at all times by all people and employees on the job site to prevent sunburn and injuries.
3. Any employee who observes a person in violation of this rule will remind that person or immediately report it to his/her supervisor.
Notes:
Much of this information comes from OSHA 3077 Revised 1994.
For additional safety information, check manufacturer’s guidelines, a competent safety professional or an OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employee is also responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules, keeping them up to date as changes are made by doing, at a minimum, an annual update and training.
Sample Rules for Personal Protective Equipment for Hearing Protection
Exposure to high noise levels can cause hearing loss or impairment as well as physical and psychological stress. There is no cure for noise-induced hearing loss so the prevention of excessive noise exposure is the only way to avoid hearing damage. Hearing protection worn incorrectly can also be damaging.
1. (Company name) will inspect job sites for noise hazards, recommend and provide appropriate equipment for employee to use.
2. (Company name) will provide molded ear plugs if exposure is frequent. A professional will fit these plugs. For non-frequent exposure to noise, self-forming or disposable ear plugs will be made available by (Company name)
Note: Plain cotton is ineffective as a protection against hazardous noise.
Note: Earmuffs need to make a perfect seal around the ear to be effective. The cups on the earmuffs should be made of sponge to give a good sound seal. Glasses, long side burns, long hair, and facial movements, such as chewing, can reduce protection. Special equipment is available for use with glasses or beards.
3. Employees must wear the appropriate equipment recommended by the (Company name) at all times in high noise areas. Employees must be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions when inserting earplugs or using earmuffs.
4. Employees need to protect their ears when the sounds are irritating, they have to raise their voice to be heard by a person closer than 2 feet away, the area is posted with signs stating that ear protection is required, sound levels reach 85 decibels or more during the time they are present or there are short bursts of sound that can cause hearing impairment. In extremely noisy areas, both muffs and plugs may be necessary.
5. Employees wearing ear protection must be extra careful since they are blocking out voices or alarms. You may need to devise hand signals to communicate with co-workers. Make sure alarms are accompanied by red flashing lights.
Notes:
For more info on hearing, see Title 29 CFR 1910.95 - Occupational Noise Exposure
Most of the information for these sample rules was obtained from OSHA 3077 1994 (Revised) with some modifications and additions. For additional information, check manufacturers guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Personal Protection Equipment for Eye Safety
1. (Company name) will provide eye protection that is adequate protection against the hazards present, reasonably comfortable, fit snugly, not to interfere with the vision and movement of the wearer, durable, capable of being disinfected and easily cleaned. (Company name) requires employees to wear eye equipment at all times (or where there is a reasonable probability of preventing injury when such equipment is used).
Note: Protectors must meet the following minimum requirements
a. Provide adequate protection against the particular hazards for which they are designed;
b. Be reasonably comfortable when worn under the designated conditions;
c. Fit snugly without interfering with the movements or vision of the wearer;
d. Be durable;
e. Be capable of being disinfected;
f. Be easily cleanable; and
g. Be kept clean and in good repair.
2. (Company name) will provide for employees using corrective glasses who are required by OSHA to wear eye protection must wear face shields, goggles or spectacles of one of the following types:
a. Spectacles with protective lenses providing optical correction;
b. Goggles worn over corrective spectacles without disturbing the adjustment of the spectacles; or
c. Goggles that incorporate corrective lenses mounted behind the protective lenses.
3. (Company name) will make sure that fitting of goggles and safety spectacles is done by someone skilled in the procedures.
4. (Company name) will make sure that prescription safety spectacles shall be fitted only by qualified optical personnel.
5. (Company name) must make sure that every protector shall be distinctly marked to facilitate identification of the manufacturer.
6. (Company name) will transmit manufacturer limitations and precautions to the user who must strictly observe them.
7. Employees must strictly observe the manufacturer limitations and precautions at all times when using eye protective equipment.
8. Employees will wear eye protective equipment at all times.
(Option 2) Employees will wear safety glasses with side guards at all times and especially when using grinders, buffers, scratch brushes, chisels, brace bits, planers, scrapers, saws, wire cutters, cable cutters, hand drills, removing nails, chipping concrete, shoveling material, working under things where materials may fall, using striking tools, where there is glare, or around any chemicals that could splash into the eye.
(Option 3) All employees (including supervisors, visitors and any other people) must use the protectors while they are in a hazardous area.
9. Employees will wear face protective equipment where there is a reasonable probability of preventing injury (such as during exposure to injury to the eyes or face from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gasses or vapor, potentially injurious light radiation or a combination of these) when such equipment is used in compliance with (Company name) training.
10. If the employee provides his/her own eye protection, s/he must submit it to (Company name) for inspection as (Company name) is responsible for making sure their equipment complies with the standards for the kind of work done, the protection needed and for making sure, along with the employee, that their spectacles are in good condition.
11. Employees exposed to injurious light radiation (such as when welding) shall use equipment with filter lenses that have a shade number appropriate for the work being performed for protection from injurious light radiation.
Note: As a rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to see the weld zone (the darkest lens carries a value of 10). Then go to a lighter shade which gives sufficient view of the weld zone without going below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas welding or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs the yellow or sodium line in the visible light of the (spectrus) operation. Lighter filters may be used when the arc is hidden by the work piece. See OSHA standards for exact requirements.
12. Emergency eye washes shall be placed in all hazardous locations. First-Aid instructions shall be posted close to potential danger spots since any delay to immediate aid or an early mistake in dealing with an eye injury can result in lasting damage.
Note: These are some First-Aid sample suggestions if an eye injury occurs:
• Small particles, specks or dust:
• Don't rub the eye.
• Hold the eye open and flush with water at nearest eyewash station.
• Can try pulling upper lid out and down over the lower lid causing the eye to tear and the particle to wash out.
• Blow to the eye:
• Apply an ice cold compress for 15 min. in order to reduce pain and swelling.
• Have a doctor examine the eye immediately to see if there is any internal injury.
• Chemical splash:
• Flush immediately with water at nearest eyewash station or shower for minimum 15 minutes.
• Do not rub or squeeze eye shut
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Object embedded in eye:
• Don't try to remove the object.
• Cover both eyes to help prevent movement of the injured eye.
• If object is large and protruding, cover it with a paper cup or something similar.
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Light burns:
• Symptoms may not be apparent until 3-12 hours after injury and include redness, swelling, light sensitivity and a gritty feeling in the eyes.
• Keep eyes closed and seek medical attention immediately.
13. Employees will inspect their eye protectors daily for damage and clean the lenses of eye protectors daily. Eye protectors will follow instructions for cleaning eye protection so as not to impair their vision. Most commonly, cleaning with hot water and soap is recommended. However, some manufacturers recommend using a special cleaning solution. It is important to follow these instructions because dirty lenses can cause eye strain and accidents.
14. (Company name) employer will replace pitted or scratched lenses promptly as they break more easily and can reduce vision.
15. Employee will inspect eye protector lenses daily and to get new safety glasses from company immediately whenever glasses are damaged.
16. Employee will inspect headbands for eye protectors daily and replace them immediately when they no longer hold eye protectors snugly in place.
17. Employee will handle goggles and spectacles carefully and stored in their cases when not in use. They shall be disinfected regularly.
18. (Company name) will clean and disinfect personal protective equipment that has been previously used before being used by or issued to another employee.
Note: Disinfect eye-protective equipment by disassembling it and thoroughly clean all parts with soap and water, swab thoroughly or immerse all parts for ten minutes in a solution of germicidal deodorant fungicide, air dry and immediately store in clean, dust proof containers such as a plastic envelope to protect them until reissue.
Notes:
Protective eye and face devices purchased after July 5, 1994, must comply with ANSI Z87.1-1989, American National Standard Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection.
If the employee provides his/her own eye protection, your company is jointly responsible for making sure their equipment complies with the standards for the kind of work done and protection needed and for making sure, along with the employee, that their spectacles are in good condition.
For additional safety information, check the manufacturer’s guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date as changes are made. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Personal Protection Equipment for Foot and Leg Safety
The typical foot injury is caused by objects falling fewer than four feet and weighing about 65 pounds. Most workers are injured while performing their normal job activities at their worksites. Foot injuries are usually caused by heavy or sharp objects falling on your foot, something heavy rolling over your foot or stepping on sharp objects that pierce the sole of your shoe. (Company name) will provide ________ percent for cost of safety shoes.
1. Employees will wear hard toe shoes at all times. If soles are thin or worn, they must be replaced. Safety shoes must be sturdy and have an impact-resistant toe and have metal insoles to protect against puncture wounds.
2. (Company name) will determine what personal protective equipment will be worn for welding activities. Leggings protect the lower leg and feet from molten metal or welding sparks. Safety snaps permit their rapid removal.
3. Before doing welding, employees will contact their supervisor and will wear appropriate leg protection.
4. Employees working around exposed electrical wires or connections will need to wear metal free non-conductive shoes or boots.
5. Employees working in static-free environments, such as with computers or other electronic equipment, will wear a conductive shoe designed to drain static charges into the mat or floor.
Notes:
Protective footwear purchased after July 5, 1994, must comply with ANSI Z41-1991, American National Standard for Personal Protection-Protective Footwear. Much of this information comes from OSHA 3077 1994 (Revised).
For additional safety information, check manufacturer’s guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is also responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date as changes are made. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for General Personal Protection Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to protect your health and safety when hazards cannot reasonably be removed from your workplace.
1. (Company name) evaluates your workplace for hazards and selects the appropriate PPE for you to use.
2. (Company name) trains you in the proper use of PPE, including when you need to wear PPE, what PPE you will wear, how to use and adjust your PPE, the limitations of your PPE and the proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of PPE.
3. (Company name) will verify your certification for different PPE in writing.
4. If (Company name) believes you don't understand all of the information covered in the training, you will be retrained.
Notes:
Almost 2,000,000 people are expected to receive disabling injuries in the workplace each year. Your life and health can depend upon this training, so it is important to have a full understanding of the PPE and its use.
Sample Rules for Personal Protective Equipment for Hand Safety
1. (Company name) shall look at each job and the job site to determine possible hazards to the hands that could cause injuries such as burns, cuts, electrical shock, absorption of chemicals, pinching, crushing, cold, amputation, vibration, repetitive motion and the like.
2. Each employee shall immediately tell his/her supervisor of any hazard (not covered in the training for that particular job or job site) that could cause injury to any worker on the job site.
3. (Company name) will study the work activities of the employees to determine the degree of dexterity required, the duration, frequency and degree of exposure to hazards and the physical stresses that will be applied.
4. Each employee shall immediately tell his/her supervisor of any physical stress (as described in rule 3) s/he or any other employee is experiencing as it arises.
5. (Company name) shall determine what hand protection employees need and train employees in proper use.
Before purchasing gloves, (Company name) shall request documentation from the manufacturer that the gloves meet the appropriate test standards for the hazards anticipated.
6. Employees will/use wear the hand protection in accordance with the employers and manufacturer’s training instructions. Employees will remind co-workers to do the same and will notify a supervisor immediately if a co-worker is endangering him/herself by not using protective equipment properly.
7. Employees shall turn rubber gloves in for testing every six months or when the routine daily inspection turns up any evidence that the protective effectiveness of the gloves has been reduced by a hole, tear or the like.
8. (Company name) shall send rubber gloves in for testing every six months or when the routine daily inspection turns up any evidence that the protective effectiveness of the gloves has been reduced by a hole, tear or the like.
9. (Company name) and each employee shall make sure all tools are well maintained and the safety guards are in place before using them.
10. Employees may use only tools and machines that they are property trained to use.
11. Based on company training and common sense, the employee will determine the proper protective equipment and proceed with the project only after reviewing the work involved thoroughly with the supervisor. Employees will obtain the personal protective equipment from your supervisor only.
12. Employees/all workers will prevent hand injuries by always doing the following:
• Using the appropriate protective gloves whenever necessary to protect against cold, sharp objects, heat, chemicals, electricity, tools and machinery wit rotating or moving parts, grinders, drills, lathes, milling machine and other hazards.
• Always remove watches, rings, bracelets, other jewelry and loose fitting clothing before starting work.
• Using tools and equipment ONLY for the jobs they were designed for.
• Keeping your work place clean, organized and your equipment and tools well maintained.
• Following OSHA CFR 1910 guidelines relating to hand safety for specific rules applications.
Notes:
The following is a list of basic first aid procedures for various types of hand injuries:
1. Bleeding: Control bleeding by gently applying direct pressure with a dry, sterile dressing. Always wear latex gloves or use other methods to protect against transmission of infection from the person's blood. Do not remove any impaled object. Immobilize the object instead. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Fractures: Avoid moving the injured hand if at all possible. Check for symptoms such as swelling, deformity, pain, tenderness, and loss of use. Control bleeding but don't attempt to push any protruding bones back under the skin. Seek medical attention immediately.
3. Amputations: Control bleeding by applying direct pressure and elevating extremity. Always wear latex gloves or use other methods to protect against transmission of infection from the person's blood. Recover and clean amputated body part by rinsing with water. Wrap amputated body part with sterile gauze or dry, clean cloth, put in a water-proof container such as a plastic bag and place on a bed of ice. Transport to hospital with victim. Seek medical attention immediately.
Rubber protective equipment for electrical workers must conform to the requirements established in ANSI as specified in the following list:
• Rubber insulating gloves J6.6-1967
• Rubber matting for use around electrical apparatus J6.7-1935 (R 1962)
• Rubber insulating blankets J6.4-1970
• Rubber insulating hoods J6.2-1950 (R 1962)
• Rubber insulating line hose J6.1-1950 (R 1962)
• Rubber insulating sleeves J6.5-1962
For additional safety information, check the manufacturer guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is also responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Samples Rules for Personal Protective Equipment for Head Protection
Head protection is required if you work near exposed electrical conductors which could contact your head or where there is risk of injury from falling objects.
1. Employees will wear a hard hat all times.
2. (Company name) will provide a Class A or B protective hard hat that protects from impact and penetration by falling or flying objects and from high-voltage shock and burn.
3. Employees will clean helmets by dipping them into water no hotter than 140 degrees. Do not use paint or paint thinners or chemical cleaners on them since they may weaken the helmet.
4. Employees will inspect all components, shells, suspensions, headbands, sweatband and any accessories daily for signs of dents, cracks, penetration, or any other damage that might reduce the degree of safety originally provided.
5. Employees will not store or carry helmets on the rear window shelf of a vehicle since sunlight and extreme heat may reduce the degree of protection.
Notes:
For more information see OSHA 30777 1994 (Revised), check manufacturers guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Helmets purchased after July 5, 1994, shall meet the standards for protective helmets contained in ANSI Personnel Protection Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers-Requirements, Z89.1-2009. Class G hard hats protect from electric shock by voltages up to 2,200 volts. Class E hard hats protect from electric shock by voltages up to 20,000 volts. Class C hardhats provide impact protection but no protection from electrical hazards. Headbands are adjustable in 1/8-size increments. When the headband is adjusted to the right size, it provides sufficient clearance between the shell and the headband. The removable or replaceable type sweatband should cover at least the forehead portion of the headband. The shell should be of one-piece seamless construction and designed to resist the impact of a blow from falling material. The internal cradle of the headband and sweatband forms the suspension. Any part that comes into contact with the wearer's head must not be irritating to normal skin.
Employers Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment
OSHA's latest revisions to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standards contained in 1910.132 and 1910.138 are published in the Federal Register Vol. 59, No. 66, PP 16344- 16364, dates April 6, 1994. The final rule also contains non-mandatory guidelines for:
1. A hazard assessment, and
2. A chart identifying the appropriate personal protective equipment for particular hazards.
PPE will not be used as a substitute for engineering, work practice, and/or administrative controls. PPE should be used in conjunction with these controls to provide for employee safety in the workplace. PPE includes clothing and other work accessories designed to create a barrier against workplace hazards.
The basic element of any management program for PPE should be an in depth evaluation of the equipment needed to protect against the hazards at the work place. That evaluation should be used to set a standard operating procedure for personnel, then train employees on the protective limitations of PPE and its proper use and maintenance.
Hazard Assessment: Employers are required to assess the workplace to determine if hazards that require the use of PPE are present or are likely to be present. If hazards or the likelihood of hazards are found, employers must select and have affected employees use properly fitted personal protective equipment suitable for protection from existing hazards.
Defective or damaged personal protective equipment shall not be used. Employers must certify in writing that a workplace hazard assessment has been performed.
Training: Before doing work requiring use of PPE, employees must be trained to know:
1. when PPE is necessary;
2. what type is necessary;
3. how it is to be worn;
4. what its limitations are,
5. its proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal.
6. that equipment cannot be altered or removed even though an employee may find it uncomfortable. (Proper fitting can often increase comfort.)
Employers are required to certify in writing that training has been carried out and that employees understand it. Each written certification shall contain:
1. the name of each employee trained,
2. the date(s) of training, and
3. identify the subject certified.
Source: Personal Protective Equipment booklet, OSHA 3077 1994 (Revised).
Sample Rules for Personal Protection Equipment for Respirators
Respirators can prevent harmful fumes, dust, vapors and gases that can cause serious diseases such as cancer or respiratory impairment.
1. (Company name) will provide respirator masks at each job site.
2. (Company name) will have employees fitted with proper respiratory equipment and train employees how to use respirator masks correctly.
The medical status of employees using respirators is reviewed initially and then annually to ensure they remain physically fit to perform work while wearing respirator.
3. Employees and all visitors will wear respirator masks in areas containing harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, vapors, or in oxygen-deficient environments such as when welding or doing maintenance (using solvents, paint thinners, degreasers and the like) where sufficient ventilation cannot be attained.
4. Employer or supervisor will recommend either an air-purifying filtering respirator or an air-supplying respirator. Air-supplying respirators are needed when not all dangerous substances can be filtered out or there is not enough oxygen in the air. If in doubt, always choose the air-supplying respirator since you cannot be too careful.
5. Where practical, employees who wear respirators are issued personal respirators for which they are responsible for the care and maintenance.
With every use of their respirator, the employee must do the following:
• Check the facepiece and head straps for damage, degradation and cleanliness.
• Test to be sure the face piece will not tear or the head straps break during use.
• Remove any accumulation of dust or foreign matter on the respirator inlets and outlets which could decrease respirator function. If foreign matter cannot be removed, replace the components.
• Shake the cartridges to make sure the absorbent remains firmly packed inside. Loose absorbent can allow contaminants to by-pass the filters.
• Check the inhalation and exhalation valves for proper function.
Employees will do these two breath tests every time they wear respirators. They give an excellent indication of fit. Once respirator is in place, close the respirator's exhalation valves and:
Test One: Positive Pressure Test. Close the exhalation valve and gently exhale into the face piece. A slight positive pressure should build up inside and remain for a few seconds after the wearer has stopped exhaling. This should cause the face piece to bulge slightly and, if no air leaks out, the fit is acceptable.
Test Two: Negative Pressure Test. Have the wearer close the inlet opening of the cartridges and gently inhale. The face piece should collapse slightly against your face. Hold your breath for at least ten seconds and, if the face piece stays collapsed and no air leaks in, the fit is acceptable.
If there is any doubt, do not go into the hazardous situation and consult with your supervisor. If you disagree with your supervisor, never endanger yourself. Some people cannot wear respirators because of face shape, contact lenses, breathing problems, asthma, heart conditions, claustrophobia, heat-sensitive, facial hair or glasses because of the side pieces.
Where respirators are used by more than one person, they will be taken to a central area for inspection and cleaning.
6. The employee will perform the following respirator cleaning procedures after each use or more often if necessary:
• Remove cartridges, valves, straps and speaking diaphragms from the face piece. Wash face piece and accessories in warm soapy water. Gently scrub with a brush. Rinse parts thoroughly in clean water. Air dry in a clean place or wipe dry with a lintless cloth. Reassemble.
• Read the manufacturer's instructions and follow those instructions thoroughly if they are different from those covered above.
7. Employees may not ever use respirator equipment without proper training on that specific kind of equipment.
8. Employees will wear only the respirator they are instructed to wear.
9. Employees will inspect for signs of equipment deterioration before and after every use.
10. Employees will follow company procedures for care of respirator equipment such as decontamination, canister/cartridge replacement and storage.
Respirator Testing Procedure
1. Have workers smell either a weak concentration of irritant smoke or banana oil to familiarize them with the smell and to make sure they respond. Test kits can be purchased.
2. Have the worker wear the respirator at least 10 minutes before starting the fit test. Use a particulate filter for smoke, organic vapor filter for banana oil and combination filter for smoke and banana oil.
3. Explain the purpose of the testing to workers and ask them to tell you if they experience effects of test substances.
4. Inform employees that smoke can irritate eyes and instruct them to keep eyes closed.
Use extreme caution to protect worker while eyes are closed. Explain that there are no harmful effects other than causing minor discomfort.
5. Have employees perform the positive and negative pressure seal tests. If a test fails, choose another respirator.
6. To test with smoke, follow the directions on a commercially available fit test kit. Tester may want to wear a respirator as well to protect from the effects of smoke.
7. If using banana oil, crush the tube and wave it around the seal.
8. For best results, conduct tests in a tent or a large and unvented plastic bag suspended over head or a hood. They are commercially available through safety suppliers. Caution should be used to prevent tripping or claustrophobia.
9. Have the test subject do the following exercises while the respirator is being tested. Each exercise should be performed for one minute:
• Breathe normally.
• Breathe deeply and regularly.
• Turn head all the way from side to side. Be sure movement is complete, and inhale on each side. So not bump the respirator against the shoulders.
• Nod the head up and down. Be sure motions are complete and made every second and inhale when head is looking toward the ceiling. Do not bump respirator against the chest.
• Talk aloud and slowly for several minutes reading the "Rainbow Passage", which causes a wide range of facial movements. "When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act like a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into many beautiful colors. These take the shape of a long round arch, with its path high above, and its two ends apparently beyond the horizon. There is, according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People look but no one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond his reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow."
• Jog carefully in place.
• Breathe normally.
10. Ask workers if they can detect the smoke or oil. If yes, stop the test and reseat or reject it.
11. If workers cannot detect the substance, give them another sensitivity test to make sure they respond to it. If not, the test isn't valid.
12. Workers who must wear respirators cannot have any facial hair, glasses or unusual facial structure. The worker must remove the interference if possible such as being clean shaven every day.
13. Record and retain test results including workers name, testers name, chemicals used, make, model and size of respirator. The wearer is approved only for this specific respirator.
Notes:
Selection of a respirator should be made according to the guidelines in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Respirator Decision Logic, HHS/PHS/CDC/ DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 87-108, May 1987.
For more information on respiratory protective equipment, see Title 29, CFR, Part 1910.134.
For additional safety information, check the manufacturer’s guidelines, contact a competent safety professional or the OSHA Consultation office.
These sample rules are suggestions only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is also responsible for assessing the accuracy of these rules, keeping them up to date as new changes are made by doing, at a minimum, an annual update and employee training.
Respirator Test Fitting
Qualitative fit testing procedures (i.e., banana oil, irritant smoke) have been used to determine appropriate fit of respirators for the workers below. Fit testing is performed at least annually.
• Name/Wearer/Social Security #
• Name of Tester
• Test Chemical
• Make/Model/Size of Respirator
• Indicate Pass/Fail
• Test Date
Sample Rules for Security Safety
Lighting
• Building openings, docks, yards and alleys will be brightly lit
• Interior lighting will be provided.
• Security lighting will be controlled by a timer or photo-electric cell.
Locks
• All outside doors will have dead bolt locks.
• A bar extension lock will be used on overhead doors along with a hardened padlock.
• Door hinges will not be accessible from the outside.
• All windows and skylights will have locks, bars or wire mesh.
• Metal locking bars may be added on outside doors to provide extra security if needed.
• Emergency locking devices that restrict exit from the building are/are not installed.
• Single cylinder locks, panic bars or alarmed releasing bars are provided on outside doors for life safety purposes.
Fencing
• A "man proof" type of fencing will be provided for the entire lot.
• Fencing will be checked __________ (daily/weekly/monthly) and any needed maintenance will be performed immediately.
• Fence gates will have hardened padlocks.
Notes:
For additional safety information check manufacturers guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consultation Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them current. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Scaffolding Safety
1. A qualified person shall approve scaffolding erection.
2. Supervisor and employees will check to make sure that scaffolding is capable of supporting at least four times the maximum load--including the weight of materials, workers and the scaffold itself.
3. Supervisor and employees will check to make sure that the scaffolding height does not exceed four times the minimum base dimensions. Footings must be sound and rigid.
4. Supervisor and employees will check scaffolding before and as it is erected to make sure it isn't damaged.
5. Supervisor and employees will check scaffolding daily and make any repairs or adjustments needed.
6. (Company name) supervisors and employees will make sure that scaffolding planking is:
• at least 2 x 10's that are scaffold grade and placed together to help keep materials and tools from falling;
• that planks will be straight grained and free of shakes, large or loose knots and other defects;
• that planks will be extended over the center line of the support from 6 to 12 inches and cleated or otherwise fastened so the planking stays in place.
7. Workers must not climb on scaffolding braces. (Company name) will provide a fixed or portable ladder, ramp, runway, stairway or other safe means of access and they will always be used by any workers.
8. Workers who are using a mobile scaffold will:
• always lock the wheels before beginning use.
• not ride or allow anyone to ride on the scaffold while it is being moved (unless it is a specific alloy and piece of equipment designed for occupied horizontal travel).
• will remove or secure material and equipment before moving the scaffold.
• move scaffold ONLY with adequate help.
• always be careful for holes in floors and for overhead obstructions.
9. Workers will NOT attempt to increase the height of the scaffold by using ladders or other devices that might cause people to fall or scaffolds to become unstable.
10. Workers will not allow tools and materials to accumulate in a manner that creates a hazard on a scaffold.
11. Workers will wear hard hats at all times and especially when working around scaffolding.
12. Workers who are working on a scaffold 10 feet or more above the ground must make sure it is equipped with guard rails and toe boards. The space between the toe board and the top rail will be screened. If this is not the case, stop work and contact your supervisor immediately. Proceed with work only after this equipment is in place. Workers will wear their safety harness and life line if such a railing is impractical.
13. When working near overhead electrical power lines, a minimum of 10 feet of clearance must be maintained. If the voltage is over 50,000, see the appropriate OSHA guidelines.
14. All workers will stay off scaffolds during storms, high winds or if scaffolds are covered with ice or snow.
If workers must work on a scaffold during these conditions, they are required to use their safety harness and life line and to remove any ice and snow before starting any work.
Notes:
For additional safety information, check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Construction Sites
Perimeter Barricades
The entire construction site should be fenced off or otherwise secured to prevent unauthorized people from intentionally or unintentionally entering the work site.
Internal Barricades
These help prevent workers from entering areas where there is danger of falling objects.
Tools
Tools will be well maintained and stored in their proper place when not in use. Use only the proper tool for the job.
Walkways
Walkways will be clearly marked and roped off to allow employees to safely enter and leave the work site.
Housekeeping
All employees are required to pick up debris, tools and equipment and carry it to the proper disposal or storage location.
Above Ground Work
Ladders and scaffolds should be inspected ______________ (daily/weekly) for damage and weakness. The safety rules written in this manual for these devices will be followed.
Electricity
All electrical power sources not necessary for construction will be shut off. All wiring will be insulated. Warnings will be posted around live wires. Fuses, circuit breakers and ground fault circuit interrupters will be used to help prevent shock injuries.
Fires
Fire protection equipment is available in __________________ (van/office/other location). Training for their proper use is held _________________(when) ________________________(where).
Personal Protective Equipment
Hard hats, eye protection, hard toe shoes will be worn at all times. Employee will bring these to work every day and get replacements from the supervisor when replacements are needed. Employee will maintain these items in working order or get a replacement.
Notes:
For additional safety information check manufacturers guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consultation Office. These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Trips, Slips, and Falls
1. Workers will mop spills immediately and post a sign stating WET FLOORS. Workers will never leave spills unattended.
2. (Company name) will supply and workers will use an oil absorbing material to control small oil spills in the work place.
3. During poor weather, employees will keep rugs, mats and floors dry. Assigned employees will remove snow and ice from all sidewalks, drives and access points used by the general public or employees promptly.
4. (Company name) and assigned employees will keep all floors, stairs, ladders, walkways, sidewalks and driveways in good repair.
5. Workers will not put electrical cords where people can trip on them.
6. (Company name) will make sure your work place is properly equipped to handle spills immediately and have sufficient materials on hand, such as warning signs and absorbent materials to keep spill prone areas safe.
7. (Company name) will clearly mark stairs, aisles and walkways. Employees will keep them free of any material.
8. Employees will travel slowly when carrying materials.
9. Employees will warn other employees or customers of potential problems and report them to their supervisor immediately.
10. Supervisors and employees will look at each job and work area to spot and avoid possible hazards and correct them immediately.
11. If an accident occurs, employees will immediately contact the person in your area who is trained in first aid.
12. (Company name) will provide OSHA-approved ladders which employees are always to use rather than a step stool or chair.
13. Workers may never climb on or drop merchandise from shelves.
14. (Company name) allows only authorized employees (18 or over) to operate fork lifts.
15. Workers may never stock merchandise on the floor or in traffic areas.
Notes:
First-Aid Reminders: For fractures, you will see swelling, deformity, pain, tenderness and loss of use. Gently remove clothing from the area around the injury. Avoid moving the injured area if possible and check for the above symptoms. Control bleeding but do not attempt to push any protruding bones back beneath the skin. Seek medical attention immediately.
Bleeding can be controlled by gently applying direct pressure with a dry sterile dressing. When saturated, do not remove it, simply add another dressing. You must wear latex gloves or use other protection against transmission of infection from the person's blood. Don't remove any impaled objects. Immobilize the object instead and seek medical attention immediately.
Neck and spinal injuries cause painful movement of the arms and/or legs, numbness, tingling, weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, paralysis to arms or legs, deformity of head and neck. Check heart rate and breathing, administer CPR if necessary but DO NOT USE HEAD TILT. DO NOT MOVE THE VICTIM IN ANY WAY unless he/she is in immediate danger. Stabilize victim to PREVENT ANY MOVEMENT. Immobilize head and neck by placing objects on either side. Protect victim against shock or hypothermia by covering with jackets or blankets to keep them warm. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SPLINT A VICTIM. Alert professional EMS help.
Construction standards required for fall protection are:
0" Floor hole, floor opening (500(B)(1))
Working over rebar (700(B))
Working over machines (500(D)(5))
3" Wire rope guardrail deflection, Std 3-10.3
19" Change of elevation when ladders or stairs needed (1051(A))
3' Side rails of ladders extended (1053(b)(1))
4' Scaffolds planked less than 45" (451(a)(4))
Wall openings (500(C)(1))
6' Open sided floors (500(D)(1))
Typing rebar (700(F)(2))
8' Spacing of wood post rails (451(a)(5))
Safety nets extended outward (105(C)(1))
10' Fully planked scaffolds (451(A)(4))
Shortage of materials on the exterior 250-251-252
16' Flat and sloped roods (500(G)(1)) (451(U)(3))
20" Debris chute (252(A))
Maximum height of a ladder jack scaffold (451(S)(2))
For more information, check manufacturer's guidelines, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting Office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and an employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Power Tools and Equipment Safety
1. (Company name) will survey each job for hazards and tools needed. Employer will make sure:
a. employees are trained in job site hazards,
b. employees are trained in the proper use, hazards and safety precautions to use with all tools, and
c. tools and equipment are in safe condition for use.
Employees are responsible for
a. following training and safety precautions when using tools, and
b. properly using and maintaining tools.
2. (Company name) will provide employees using hand and power tools that cause hazards from falling, flying, abrasive, splashing objects, harmful dusts, fumes, mists vapors or gases with the appropriate personal protective equipment (and training) necessary to protect from these tool related hazards.
Employees will use this equipment and follow the instructions carefully and consistently.
3. Employer and employees will make sure that all tools, whether furnished by the Company or the employee, shall be maintained in safe condition (and that the correct tool shall be used in the correct manner for every job).
Employee will report hazardous situations immediately to their supervisor.
4. Employer and employees will follow these five basic safety rules that will help prevent hazards associated with the use of hand and power tools:
a. Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
b. Use the right tool for the job.
c. Examine each tool for damage before use.
d. Operate according to the manufacturer's instructions.
e. Provide and use the right protective equipment.
Employees will use non-powered hand tools properly and only for the purpose for which they are designed. Some examples of hazards to avoid are:
a. Employees must use tools only for the purpose for which they are designed. An example of damage caused when a chisel is used as a screwdriver is that such use may cause the top of the chisel to break and fly, hitting the user or other employee.
b. Employees must only use tools in good repair and in a safe manner. Any tools that are worn or damaged must be turned in for repair or replacement. Examples are:
• Axes or hammers with loose, splintered or cracked wooden handles must never be used. The heads may fly off and hit another worker.
• Wrenches with jaws that are sprung must not be used. They may slip and cause injury to the user or other employee working in close proximity.
• Impact tools such as chisels, wedges or drift pins with mushroomed heads must not be used. They are unsafe and might shatter on impact causing sharp fragments to fly and hit the user or other employees.
• Employees will direct saw blades, knives and other tools away from themselves, aisle areas and other employees working in close proximity.
• Knives and scissors must be sharp. Dull tools are more hazardous than sharp ones.
• Employer will provide and employees will use appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety goggles and gloves when using hand tools.
• Employer and employees will make sure that floors are kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools.
• Employer and employees will either use spark resistant tools (made of brass, plastic, aluminum or wood) or eliminate any flammable substances when sparks could be produced by work with or on iron or steel.
6. Power tools can be hazardous when used improperly and may be powered by electricity, pneumatics, liquid fuel, hydraulics and the like.
(Company name) will review the work to be done and will give direction to employees on which tools to use and make sure they are trained in their proper use, hazards and safety precautions to use with those tools.
Employees will use power tools properly and in compliance with the training given by their employer.
Hand held power tools: To prevent hazards associated with the use of power tools, workers will observe the general precautions:
a. Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
b. Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
c. Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
d. Disconnect tools when not using, before servicing and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters.
e. Keep all observers at a safe distance from the work area.
f. Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
g. Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.
h. Maintain tools with care. Keep sharp and clean for best performance. Follow instructions in the user's manual for lubricating and changing accessories.
i. Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance.
j. Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing, ties or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.
k. Remove all damaged portable electric tools from use and tag them "DO NOT USE".
(Company name) will make sure safety guards are provided to protect the operator and others from the following:
a. Point of operation.
b. In-running nip points.
c. Rotating part.
d. Flying chips and sparks.
Employees will never remove safety guards and will make sure all guards are on during operation.
Employer will put "contact on-off control switches" on drills; tappers; fastener drivers; horizontal, vertical and angle grinders with wheels larger than 2 inches in diameter; disc and belt sanders; reciprocating saws; saber saws; and other similar tools. (These tools also may be equipped with a "lock-on" control, if it allows the worker also to shut off the control in a single motion using the same finger(s). Employer will train in proper use.
Employees will never disconnect any of these controls or switches and will always use as instructed by employer and manufacturer’s instructions.
Employer will equip the following hand-held power tools with a “positive on-off control switch”: platen sanders; disc sanders with discs 2 inches or less in diameter; grinders with wheels 2 inches or less in diameter; routers; planers; laminate trimmers; nibblers; shears; scroll saws; and jigsaws with blade shanks 1/4 inch wide or less.
Employer will equip hand-held power tools (such as circular saws having a blade diameter greater than 2 inches, chain saws and percussion tools that cannot be easily held) with a constant pressure switch that will shut off the power when the pressure is released.
Electric Tools: These general practices should be followed by employees when using electric tools:
a. Operate electric tools within their design limitations.
b. Use gloves and safety footwear when using electric tools.
c. Store tools in a dry place when not in use.
d. Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations.
e. Keep work areas well lighted.
f. Do not allow cords to present a tripping hazard.
g. Tools must either have a three-wire cord with ground and be grounded; be double insulated; or be powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer. Third prong may never be removed. If an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground.
Power abrasive wheel tools: Power abrasive grinding, cutting, polishing and wire buffing wheels create special safety problems because they may throw off flying fragments.
a. Before an abrasive wheel is mounted, employer will sound or ring test it to ensure that it is free from cracks or defects. (To test, wheels should be tapped gently with a light, non-metallic instrument. If they sound cracked or dead, they must not be used because they could fly apart in operation. An undamaged wheel will give a clear metallic tone or ring.)
b. A wheel may disintegrate or explode during start up so an employee will never stand directly in front of the wheel as it accelerates. Portable wheels need to be equipped with safety guards.
c. When using a power grinder, workers must:
• Always use eye protection.
• Turn off the power when not in use.
• Never clamp a hand-held grinder in a vise.
Liquid fuel tools: Fuel powered tools usually operate on gasoline and the most serious hazard comes from fuel vapors that can burn or explode and give off dangerous exhaust fumes.
Employer will provide proper equipment and train employees on correct procedures for handling fuel and fuel operated equipment.
Employee will be careful to handle, transport and store gas or fuel only in approved flammable liquid containers according to proper procedures.
Employee will turn off the engine and allow it to cool before refilling the tank for a fuel powered tool (or explosion from the fumes can occur).
Employer must provide and employee must use effective ventilation and/or personal protective equipment adequate to avoid breathing carbon monoxide.
Employer must provide and train and employee must know where and how to use fire extinguishers.
When using pneumatic, powder-actuated and hydraulic tools, consult OSHA guidelines.
7. Take special precautions when using power tools on a scaffold, or other locations where space is limited. Get a good footing, use both hands, keep cords clear of obstructions, do not over-reach.
Notes:
For additional safety information, refer to OSHA publication Hand and Power Tools #3080, check manufacturer's guidelines for additional safety information, contact a competent professional or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employee is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Sample Rules for Excavating and Trenching
While electrical contractors rarely do deep trenching, it is important for them to know the regulations in case they do or in case they and/or their employees are working around or in trenches or excavations.
Planning for safety prior to digging
1. Contractor must ask the utility companies and/or owners to find the exact location of utility installations including sewer, telephone, fuel, electric, water lines or any other underground installations that may be encountered during digging.
Utilities and/or owners have twenty-four (24) hours to find the exact location (unless the state gives them longer) of the utility installation or the contractor may proceed with caution.
Contractor will contact utilities (within time lines required locally) and inform them of the proposed work.
2. Contractor must use safe and acceptable means to locate, remove, protect or properly support underground installations.
3. Contractor will do a written hazard analysis of the site and make provisions for safety and hazard training for employees. (For legal, inspection and regulatory reasons it is wise to have written documentation.) Training will include proper operation of equipment, managing traffic, working with other contractors on the site and more.
On-the-job evaluations
1. Daily, a competent person must inspect excavations and the adjacent areas for possible cave-ins, failures of protective systems and equipment, hazardous atmospheres or other hazardous conditions.
2. If these conditions are found, exposed employees must be removed from the hazardous area until the necessary safety precautions have been taken. Employees who notice these conditions must immediately contact a supervisor and vacate.
3. A competent person will make an inspection after natural (such as heavy rains) or man-made (such as blasting) events that may increase the potential for hazards.
4. Supervisors and owners will set the example for safety at the job site and must follow all safety precautions rigorously.
5. Employees must take an active role in safety by looking out for each other, following all training in the use and fit of protective equipment and, using safe work practices.
Cave-ins and protective support systems
OSHA standards provide 4 methods for sloping and 4 methods for shoring for designing protective systems that can be used to provide the required level of protection against cave-ins. Several of the methods are:
1. One design measure is to slope sides to an angle not steeper than one and one-half horizontal to one vertical (34 degrees measured from the horizontal). These slopes must be excavated to form configurations that are in accordance with those for Type C soil found in Appendix B of the standard. A slope of this gradation or less is considered safe for any type of soil. All simple slope excavations 20 feet or less in depth shall have a maximum allowable slope of 1 1/2:1.
2. A second design method, which can be applied for both sloping and shoring, involves using tabulated data (such as tables and charts) approved by a registered professional engineer (RPE). This data must be written, understandable, include criteria, the limits on the use of the data, include the engineers name and location, be available at the worksite during construction of the protective system, and available to OSHA upon request.
3. OSHA standards permit the use of a trench box or shield that is designed and/or approved by a registered professional engineer or based on tabulated data prepared or approved by a RPE and made of lumber, aluminum or other suitable materials (as long as the protection it provides is equal to or greater than the protection that would be provided by the appropriate shoring system.
4. Protective systems can be waived when an excavation is entirely in stable rock or is less than 5 feet deep and a competent person has examined the ground and found no indication of a potential cave-in.
5. Any installations must be protected, supported or removed when the excavation is opened as necessary to safeguard employees and the community.
6. Any excavation more than five feet deep must have the sides sloped no more steeply than the angle of repose for soil conditions. The angle of repose is the greatest angle above the horizontal at which a material will lie without sliding. This varies for different soil conditions. If you are not properly trained and authorized to determine the angle of repose, you must contact your supervisor before proceeding.
Safety precautions
1. OSHA prohibits excavations near or below adjacent structures such as buildings, walls, sidewalks or pavements unless stability is ensured by adequate support systems such as shoring, bracing or underpinning (or a registered professional engineer determines that the structure is sufficiently removed from the excavation that excavation will not pose a hazard to employees). Refer to OSHA publication 2226.
2. Equipment and machinery:
a. Employer must ensure that materials and equipment are:
• free from damage or defects;
• manufactured materials and equipment and used and maintained in a manner consistent with the recommendations of the manufacturer and in a way that will prevent employee exposure to hazards;
• while in operation, damaged materials and equipment are examined by a competent person to determine if they are suitable for continued use;
• if materials and equipment are not safe for use, they must be removed from service and not return without the evaluation and approval of an RPE.
b. Employees must, when around excavation machinery:
• Never touch a piece of excavation machinery while it is running or digging.
• Always stand in view of the machine operation and out of the way.
3. Hazards caused by water accumulation must be prevented:
a. Rain, ground or surface water must not be allowed to accumulate in a trench since it reduces soil stability. If such a condition exists, employees must leave trench until water has been removed.
b. OSHA standards require diversion ditches, dikes or other suitable means be used to prevent surface water from entering an excavation and provide adequate drainage of the area adjacent to the excavation.
c. A competent person must inspect excavations daily and subject to runoffs from heavy rains.
4. Hazards caused by falls, falling loads and mobile equipment must be prevented by:
a. Workers will NEVER stand at the edge of an excavation.
b. Where people or equipment are permitted to cross a trench or other opening, contractor will make sure walkways consist of planks of uniform thickness fastened together with exposed beveled cleats, guard rails and strong steps.
c. Contractor will provide warning systems such as mobile equipment, hand or mechanical signals or stop logs--to alert workers of the edge of an excavation.
Unattended excavations must be highlighted and barricaded.
d. Supervisors and workers will warn non-workers and non-authorized workers to keep away from the trench--especially at night.
e. Workers and supervisors will keep excavated materials a MINIMUM of 2 feet back from the edge of the trench, have retaining devices or both.
f. Workers and supervisors will keep heavy loads of all kinds as far from the trench as possible.
g. Contractor will provide scaling to remove loose rock or soil.
h. Contractor will provide protective barricades and other equivalent protection to protect employees against falling rock, soil or materials.
i. Employees will not work on faces of sloped or benched excavations at levels above other employees:
1. unless directed to do so by competent person, and
2. unless told how employees at lower levels are adequately protected from the hazard of falling, rolling or sliding material or equipment.
j. Employees will never work under loads that are being handled by lifting or digging equipment.
k. Employees must stand away from vehicles being loaded or unloaded. This will prevent being struck by spillage or falling materials.
l. If given permission by competent person/supervisor, employees can remain in cabs of vehicles if they provide adequate protection from falling loads during loading and unloading operations.
5. Hazardous atmospheres: MN OSHA's right to know standards will be followed whenever hazardous conditions of this nature exist.
a. Employer must test excavations greater than 4 feet in depth as well as ones where oxygen deficiency or a hazardous atmosphere exists or could reasonably be expected to exist before allowing a worker to enter the excavation.
b. If a hazardous condition exists or may develop, employer must:
• provide controls (such as respiratory equipment or ventilation) and the area tested regularly.
• provide, have readily available and ensure emergency rescue equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness and line, basket stretcher.
• This equipment must be attended when used.
c. See OSHA regulations if employees are to enter bell-bottom pier holes and similar deep and confined footing excavations.
6. Access and egress:
a. In trenches of more than 4 feet deep, adequate means of exit (such as ladders or steps) must be placed so they can be reached in 25 feet (or less) of travel from anywhere in the trench.
b. Structural ramps or runways must be designed by a competent person in a manner to prevent tripping by workers or displacement/tipping of equipment.
7. NEVER lie down, sit in the bottom of, or enter a hole without proper shoring.
8. A full body safety harness will be utilized for extreme conditions. An outside attendant will be available at ALL TIMES.
9. Everyone on the job site will wear hard hat protection.
10. When excavating near traffic areas, safety vests shall be worn by all employees. Check construction safety guidelines for additional information or contact a competent professional.
11. DAILY INSPECTIONS of excavations, the adjacent areas and protective systems shall be made by a competent person prior to the start of work and as needed throughout the shift. Where evidence of a situation that could result in possible cave-in, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres or other hazardous conditions are found, exposed employees shall be removed from the hazardous area until the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure their safety.
Notes:
For additional information, check manufacturer's guidelines for additional safety information, refer to OSHA publication Excavations #2228, contact a competent professional, or the OSHA Consulting office.
These rules are samples only. Each employer is responsible for working with his/her employees to write rules that meet the specific needs of their individual company and type of work. Each employer is responsible for assessing the accuracy of their rules and keeping them up to date. OSHA requires a minimum of an update and employee re-training annually.
Definitions
Trench: Narrow excavation made below the surface of the ground in which the depth is greater than the width (the width not exceeding 15 feet).
Excavation: Any cut, cavity, trench or depression formed by earth removal covering anything from cellars to highways.
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