National OSHA event aims to improve workplace safety

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) fifth annual National Safety Stand-down to Prevent Falls begins May 7. The country-wide event encourages companies to facilitate discussions regarding the importance of workplace safety, host demonstrations showing safe practices, and offer workers training in both hazard recognition and fall prevention.

In 2017, the lack of proper fall protection, specifically within the construction industry, was the most frequently cited violation noted by OSHA during worksite inspections. Inspectors also repeatedly noted unsafe conditions related to respiratory protection, scaffolding capacity, and machine guarding. Events such as stand-downs allow an opportunity for employers and workers to discuss potential workplace hazards and review company safety policies, goals, and expectations.

Organizations supporting/participating in the event include the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Center for Construction Research and Training, the American Society of Safety Engineers, the National Safety Council, the National Construction Safety Executives, and the U.S. Air Force. Participating workplaces are invited to provide feedback to OSHA following their safety events and will receive a personalized certificate of participation.

The event runs until May 11. To read more, click here.