Archive for the ‘OSHA Compliance’ Category

OSHA and Homeland Security Promote Safety for Oil Spill Workers

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010

On 6/10/2010, OSHA and the Department of Homeland Security teamed up to establish safety procedures during the response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.  The two agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will further joint efforts to monitor compliance with safety standards and to protect workers involved in the response to the oil spill.

The MOU solidifies the close working relationship between the Coast Guard and OSHA, and establishes a specific mechanism for coordination between the Deepwater Horizon FOSC and OSHA.  OSHA and Homeland Security recognize the importance of close cooperation among all agencies that have responsibilities during the oil cleanup efforts.

To view the MOU, click here.

New Hexavalent Chromium Rule

Friday, May 28th, 2010

OSHA has modified the requirement of employee notification of Hexavalent Chromium exposures.  The previous rule stipulated that only employees who were exposed in excess of the PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) be notified.  Now the rule states that all employees must be notified of their exposure.  This modification to the rule takes effect on June 15, 2010.

Hexavalent Chromium Booklet

Friday, May 28th, 2010

OSHA has published a booklet outlining the industry requirements on Hexavalent Chromium.  This publication can be used as a guide in achieving compliance with the Hexavalent Chromium Standard. 

The guide discusses monitoring requirements, training, housekeeping, personal protective equipment as well as other useful information. 

To view this Hexavalent Chromium booklet and OSHA Compliance tool, click here.

Increased OSHA Citations

Friday, May 7th, 2010

On April 22, 2010, OSHA issued a memorandum to the Regional Administrators in regards to increased penalties for OSHA violations. 

These penalties will be adjusted based on the companies history, company size, informal settlements and the use of outside consultants.  

The average penalty for a serious violation will be adjusted from approximately $1000 to between $3000 and $4000.  

Additional changes include modifying the time period for repeat violations from the current 3 year period to 5 years.  View more details of the Increased OSHA Citation memorandum.

Per Instance Citations

Friday, February 26th, 2010

OSHA has recently cited a Pennsylvania roofing company with 10 per instance citations for failing to protect employees from falls.

With regard to OSHA compliance, the summary of the violations Per Instance Citations can be viewed here.

OSHA Compliance-Stickers on hard hats

Monday, December 7th, 2009

OSHA recently issued a letter of interpretation regarding placement of stickers on hard hats.