OSHA Defense
9 OSHA Safety And Health Regulations For The Construction Industry
OSHA was enacted to provide on-the-job safety and health conditions for employees. It is their duty to guarantee that employers keep their workplaces free from hazards that can cause death or serious injury to their employees. The construction industry has specific conditions that are required by all construction industry employers. As your OSHA attorneys, we know how overwhelming it can be to stay informed and up to date with all OSHA safety and health regulations for the construction industry. The following is a brief overview of which regulations all construction employers must be aware of.
1. Confined Space
Confined space standards (29 CRF 1926.21(b)(6) for the construction industry, a full range of confined space products (i.e., air powered confined space fans and blowers, confined space entry winches, air monitors, and confined space hoist frames) can assist employers with full compliance of this regulation. Because the standards for confined space are not as specific as the general industry standard, the construction industry should refer to the general industry standards (1910.146).
2. Fall Protection
The construction industry standard for fall protection (1926 Subpart M) is very detailed. According to this standard, fall protection is required when a construction employee is working at a height that is greater than or equal to 6 ft.
3. Stairways And Ladders
Construction standard (1926.1060) states that there should be training for each employee using stairways and ladders.
4. Fire Extinguishers
(1926.151) requires that all fire extinguishers that are at least a 2A rating must be provided every 3000 square feet
5. Ground Fault-Circuit Interrupters
(1926.404(b)(1)(ii)) standards requires Ground Fault-Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) that are on 120-volt outlets at construction sites that are used by workers and are not part of permanent wiring.
6. Eye Washes
Eye wash standards (1926.441) states that there must be an eyewash and body-flushing facility within 25 feet of a battery changing area.
7. Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective equipment (PPE) standards are very close between construction and general industry, although they do cover different types of PPE. The construction standards for PPE include requirements on body belts, lifelines and lanyards, safety net, and any work that takes place on or over water.
8. Illumination
Illumination standards (1926.56) have specific requirements for construction sites. This standard requires that there be at least five foot candles for general lighting in construction areas.
9. Accident-Prevention Signs and Tags
Accident-Prevention Signs And Tags standards (1926.200) require that an accident-prevention sign or tag be visible at all times when work is performed. Signs need to be removed or covered as soon as the hazard no longer exists.
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Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.