Oklahoma employers who own construction businesses face new federal requirements designed to safeguard their workers. The new rule, which takes effect on Aug. 3, 2015, requires construction companies to have a plan in place when their employees will be working in confined spaces.
OSHA requirements for employers in Oklahoma
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires employers in Oklahoma and around the country to provide safe working conditions for their employees as well as keeping track of injuries and reporting them. To the extent that is possible, employers must ensure that the workplaces are free of hazards, and when hazards are unavoidable, organizations must take steps to ensure that employees are able to work safely.
How employers can address fall hazards during construction
Many construction workers in Oklahoma and around the country die annually from falls that occur while they are erecting exterior and interior walls in residential structures. Employers can help to reduce falls and increase safety at the workplace by taking precautionary steps in addressing these workplace hazards.
New tech for old backs
Oklahoma employees may be interested in learning more about how wearable technology may be able to help improve workplace safety. A new device has been developed that could help warehouse workers avoid throwing out their backs while performing functions necessary for their job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics claims that over 100,000 workplace injuries were attributable to lowering or lifting objects and boxes during 2013. One company has already developed a back brace equipped with technology capable of detecting the muscles being used when the body is attempting to lift an object.
Nail gun injuries in the construction industry
Construction workers in Oklahoma often use nail guns as part of their josb. Although these tools are excellent for speeding up certain tasks, they can also be dangerous when used incorrectly. According to data compiled by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, nail gun injuries result in 37,000 emergency room visits every year.
Dangers of hydrogen sulfide exposure at work
Oklahoma workers whose jobs involve working around hydrogen sulfide should be aware of the risks posed by exposure to the substance. The gas is especially toxic, and exposure to it can result in serious injury and in some cases death.
Dangers of heavy machinery in the workplace
Workers in Oklahoma who use heavy machinery should be conscious of safety regulations. Although machinery makes work more efficient, it also introduces dangers into the workplace as well as the need for extra precautions. Injuries from machines can range from burns to crushed hands or amputations.
Who can be found liable for construction-related injuries?
Oklahoma residents might benefit from understanding more about which parties may held be liable for injuries incurred in a construction accident. Because of the dangerous nature of the work, injuries at these job sites can be a frequent occurrence. Promoting safety awareness through inspections, regulations and employer policies is often the recommended approach towards reducing the risk of injury or death at construction sites.
Ergonomic processes could help to keep Oklahoma workers healthy
The Bureau for Labor Statistics published study results in 2011 showing that musculoskeletal disorders were the subjects of 33 percent of cases involving employee injuries or illnesses. These types of disorders include such injuries to muscles, nerves and tendons as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, and they are can occur across a diverse spectrum of careers when workers are overexerted. To help minimize or eliminate the occurrence of these conditions, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration encourages employers to apply ergonomic processes for their workers.
