How do you ensure that your workplace conforms to the general safety standards that are imposed by OSHA? We've broken the process down into four steps:
Step 1: Identify which of the standards apply to your workplace. To get a copy of the OSHA standards, or if you have any problems determining whether a standard applies to your workplace, you may contact the nearest OSHA area office for assistance (look in the government pages of your local phone book) or you may contact a consultant.
Unfortunately, there is no shortcut in locating which of the 144 general industry standards might apply. The standards are organized by:
Step 2: After you have obtained a copy of the current standards, you will need to read over those standards that apply. However, you will need to review the introduction, often called scope and application, for every standard that is potentially applicable to the workplace.
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Most businesses need to pay particular attention to the following standards that govern general office worksites:
Step 3: Once you determine which standards apply to your workplace and become familiar with them, you must implement the requirements of all standards that apply to the particular workplace and the particular work task or operation.
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Compliance may involve ensuring equipment design specifications, training employees, and establishing prohibited practices and required practices. Compliance may also involve generating records, certifying compliance, or documenting required practices for that standard. These recordkeeping requirements are in addition to the general recordkeeping applicable to all employers.
Step 4: In general, all employers should be aware that any occupational hazard not covered by an industry-specific standard may be covered by a general industry standard or by the general duty clause.
If you need financial help in complying with the standards, the OSH Act has
been amended by the Small Business Act to authorize loans (either directly or in
cooperation with banks or other lending institution) to assist any small
business in "effecting additions to or alteration in the equipment,
facilities or methods of operation of such business," in order to comply
with OSHA standards, or those adopted by a state pursuant to an approved state
plan.