Welcome to Work Comp Wednesdays! Insurance People is the industry-leader in North Carolina workers’ compensation insurance. Each week, our team takes a frequently asked question and expands on the issue for our clients, prospective clients, and community members to better understand the confusing nature of Work Comp.
Background:
The purpose of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 is “to assure safe and healthful working conditions for men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the State in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health…”
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an information hub for employers on all things related to workplace safety. Although their resources are free and extremely valuable, they can be difficult to find on the administration’s website.
Below you will find links to resources on how to improve workplace safety and health:
OSHA provides safety and health resources specifically designed for small businesses. Resources include OSHA Coverage, COVID-19 Resources, Safety and Health Programs, Recordkeeping Requirements, etc.
Interactive, web-based training tools on occupational safety and health topics. They are highly illustrated and utilize graphical menus. Some also use expert system modules, which enable the user to answer questions, and receive reliable advice on how OSHA regulations apply to their worksite.
With hundreds of topics ranging from Asbestos to Scaffolding, OSHA provides detailed reports that consist of an overview, standards, hazards and solutions, additional resources, and much more.
Training Requirements and Resources:
OSHA provides information on employers’ training requirements and offers resources such as free publications, videos, and other assistance to help employers protect workers against injuries and illnesses.
OSHA provides printable and electronic resources for employers to post or distribute in the workplace. Common publications include OSHA posters, standards, memorandums, guides, etc.
OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program offers no-cost and confidential occupational safety and health services to small- and medium-sized businesses, with priority given to high-hazard worksites. On-Site Consultation services are separate from enforcement and do not result in penalties or citations.