OSHA—the federal agency responsible for overseeing workplace safety—annually announces the top safety violations for the year at the National Safety Council’s Safety Congress & Expo.
But why should you care? Because when we know more, we can do better!
Below you’ll find the top violations and how you can take steps to prevent them.
1. Fall Protection – General Requirements (1926.501): 5,260 violations
Falling off overhead platforms or workstations is a huge risk when working at elevated heights. However, following the requirements set by OSHA—fall protection provided at elevations of four feet in general industry workplaces—helps to prevent fall-related injuries. Fall protection equipment is a necessity that aids in keeping employees safe.
2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200): 2,424 violations
Employee exposure to hazardous chemicals requires labels and safety sheets to be available and unambiguous to workers. Properly labeling chemicals and providing necessary training keep chemical safety a top priority by conveying correct information about chemicals employees may handle.
3. Respiratory Protection (1910.134): 2,185 violations
Respiratory protection is essential for keeping employees safe from airborne hazards. Using the proper respiratory protection gear prevents workers from breathing in harmful gasses, smoke, dust, and other potential air contaminants that may cause cancer, lung impairment, and diseases.
4. Ladders (1926.1053): 2,143 violations
Ladder usage can have dire consequences if they’re not used properly or kept in good condition. Following all ladder labels and safety precautions—as well as guaranteeing your ladder is safe and in proper working order—helps mitigate the risk of falling and prevents serious injury.
5. Scaffolding (1926.451): 2,058 violations
Scaffolds, by OSHA’s guidelines, must support 4 times the maximum intended load applied. Using proper scaffolding equipment that complies with these guidelines, as well as reducing excess clutter and supplies, greatly reduces injuries attributed to falls and slipping.
6. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147): 1,977 violations
When servicing machines and equipment, the energy sources can be hazardous to workers if precautions aren’t taken to control them properly. To guarantee workers’ safety, proper lockout/tagout procedures need to be followed, as well as using reliable lockout/tagout gear.
7. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178): 1,749 violations
When moving materials with forklifts or lift trucks, many safety hazards can present themselves depending on the situation and how these vehicles are used or handled. When industrial trucks are in use, be sure that the operator receives comprehensive training and that powered trucks and other vehicles are well-maintained.
8. Fall Protection – Training Requirements (1926.503): 1,556 violations
Similar to #1 on OSHA’s list, this one relates to providing adequate training to employees who work in situations that may make them more prone to falling. Using proper fall protection equipment is necessary, as is the appropriate training on how to properly and effectively use the equipment.
9. Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment – Eye and Face Protection (1926.102): 1,401 violations
Eye and face protection are required when performing many jobs, yet forgetting to wear them is a common mistake. Neglecting to use sufficient eye and face protection can result in an array of injuries that can be avoided when taking the proper precautions. Remember, eye protection must provide side protection as well.
10. Machine Guarding (1910.212): 1,370 violations
Any moving part of a machine has the potential to cause severe harm. No matter the tool or machinery used, any part that’s in motion may cause injuries—either from rotating blades or flying debris—and needs to be safeguarded to protect workers from these easily preventable injuries.
Understanding these violations and the solutions to combat each one of them is necessary for a properly functioning workplace. Accident prevention is taken very seriously to ensure employees' well-being and safety and shouldn't be brushed over. Use this list, assess your own workplace, and take measures to equip your facility with the proper safety equipment from Zoro.com.
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