Every year OSHA publishes their list of top violations that occurred for the year.  This year, issues related to training of employees on various safety standards contributed to more than 10,000 violations.  Some of the top issues were:

Hazard Communication (1910.1200) – This standard requires employers that use hazardous chemicals to have a written hazard communication program, label all containers and provide safety data sheets and training on the safe handling of these chemicals to their employees.

Lockout / Tagout (1910.147) – This standard covers the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment in which the unexpected energization or start up of the machines or equipment, or release of stored energy, could harm employees.  The procedures created under this standard are meant to safeguard employees when machinery unexpected starts up.  Failing to train workers in this area accounted for many of the violations.

Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178) – Forklift drivers must be trained, certified and re-evaluated every three years according to this standard.  Training shall consist of a combination of formal instruction (e.g., lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video tape, written material), practical training (demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee), and evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace.

Fall Protection Training Requirements (1926.503) – According to this construction standard, the employer shall provide a training program for each employee who might be exposed to fall hazards. The program shall enable each employee to recognize the hazards of falling and shall train each employee in the procedures to be followed in order to minimize these hazards.  While this category was not on the 2016 “Top 10”, there were over 1500 violations of this standard in 2017.

Training is an important element of occupational health and safety no matter what industry the company belongs to.  Ascension Learning Solutions can help you comply with these requirements.  Reach out to us today to see what we can do for you (info@engageyourlearners.com).