December 19, 2017
Safety in the workplace is paramount, but each year, certain violations repeatedly show up, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining safe working environments. In 2017, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revealed the top safety violations, providing insight into the areas where businesses most frequently falter. Understanding these violations can help companies focus on key areas to improve and ensure a safer workplace for all employees.
Falls remain the leading cause of fatalities in construction. In 2017, the most frequently cited OSHA violation was the failure to provide proper fall protection. This includes ensuring that workers have access to guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems when working at heights. Employers must ensure that all potential fall hazards are assessed and that protective measures are in place.
Many workplaces contain hazardous chemicals, and it’s crucial that employees are informed about the dangers they face. The Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to provide information about hazardous chemicals through labels, safety data sheets, and employee training. Failure to properly communicate these hazards was the second most common violation in 2017.
Improper scaffolding setup can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. OSHA’s scaffolding standard outlines the requirements for safely erecting and using scaffolds. Despite this, many violations occurred in 2017 due to inadequate planking, lack of guardrails, and improper access points. Ensuring that scaffolds are correctly constructed and inspected regularly is essential to preventing accidents.
In environments where workers are exposed to harmful dust, fumes, or other airborne contaminants, proper respiratory protection is a must. The fourth most cited violation involved the failure to implement a respiratory protection program, including fit testing, medical evaluations, and training.
The lockout/tagout standard is designed to prevent accidental startup of machinery during maintenance or servicing. Violations in this category typically involved the failure to properly shut down and lockout equipment, leading to serious injuries or deaths. Ensuring that all energy sources are controlled before maintenance is critical to workplace safety.
Ladder safety is often overlooked, but misuse can lead to serious falls. Violations in 2017 included improper ladder use, such as using ladders for unintended purposes or failing to secure them properly. Training workers on the correct use of ladders and ensuring that the right equipment is available can help prevent these accidents.
Forklifts and other powered industrial trucks pose significant hazards if not operated correctly. Violations commonly involved inadequate operator training and failure to ensure that trucks were maintained in safe operating condition. Proper training and regular inspections are necessary to prevent accidents involving these vehicles.
Machinery in the workplace can cause severe injuries if not properly guarded. OSHA’s machine guarding standards require that machines have the necessary guards to protect operators from moving parts. Violations often involved missing or inadequate guards, putting workers at risk of amputations or other serious injuries.
In addition to providing physical fall protection, employers must also train workers on how to recognize fall hazards and use fall protection systems correctly. In 2017, many employers failed to provide this essential training, leading to it being one of the most cited violations.
Electrical safety is critical in preventing fires, shocks, and electrocutions. The tenth most common violation involved improper wiring methods, including using incorrect extension cords or failing to secure electrical components. Ensuring that all electrical systems are up to code and regularly inspected can prevent these hazards.
The top safety violations of 2017 serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in the workplace. By addressing these common issues, employers can help reduce the risk of injury and create a safer environment for all employees. Regular training, proper equipment maintenance, and adherence to safety standards are key steps in preventing these violations.
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