Category: Equipment and Machinery Safety

Crane

OSHA Issues Amendments for Cranes, Derricks

On September 15, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued revisions to its construction industry standard for cranes and derricks (85 FR 57109). The new clarifications and exemptions reflect situations in which Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations preempt OSHA standards.

Nighttime Farm Work

California Adopts New Standard for Nighttime Farm Work

On June 24, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) announced the adoption of new workplace safety standards to protect agricultural employees who work at night. The new standards to protect agricultural workers who harvest, operate vehicles, and perform other work between sunset and sunrise are the first lighting standards in the nation.

Lockout Tagout of electrical box

Lockout/Tagout 101: Why Is This Process Used?

Lockout/tagout refers to the procedures that safeguard employees from the sudden and unexpected start-up of machinery; the reenergization of equipment could be dangerous for those close to the machinery, especially if workers believe the equipment is safely shut down. It is imperative to ensure that dangerous machines are completely shut off and are not able […]

forklift

OSHA Proposals for Forklifts, Walking-Working Surfaces in New Labor Agenda

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) plans to issue a pair of proposals in the new year to update its forklift and walking-working surfaces rules, according to the Department of Labor’s new regulatory agenda. The department issued its first agenda since Eugene Scalia became Secretary of Labor.

Welding fumes

Welding Fume Now Considered a Known Carcinogen

If you employ welders, they may be at risk for lung cancer, regardless of the metals they weld. However, researchers have yet to compile all the information employers need on exposure limits and hazard controls.

Lockout Tagout sign

OSHA Wants Your Input on Lockout/Tagout

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is asking for comments, data, and information about possible revisions to its Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) standard. The agency is considering whether to accept alternatives to energy-isolating devices.

Loading dock, forklift

Loading Dock Safety in 5 Easy Steps

For manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers, loading docks are the center of the action—the hub for receiving and unloading freight. Loading docks can be exterior or fully enclosed in a receiving bay, and they are typically located near a storage room or staging area. They can also be one of the more dangerous areas […]