General Industry Standards

Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200): The Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) is designed to ensure that employees are informed about the hazardous chemicals they may encounter in the workplace. Key components include:

1. Chemical Labeling: Employers must label containers of hazardous chemicals with information about the product’s identity, the manufacturer’s name and address, and appropriate hazard warnings.
2. Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Employers must maintain SDS for each hazardous chemical in the workplace. These sheets provide detailed information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures for the chemical.
3. Employee Training: Employers are required to provide training to employees on the hazards of chemicals in their work area. This includes information on proper storage, handling, and emergency procedures related to hazardous chemicals.

Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1910.147): The Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) standard addresses the control of hazardous energy to prevent unexpected equipment startup during servicing or maintenance. Key elements include:

1. Energy Control Procedures: Employers must establish and implement procedures for shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing machines or equipment to control hazardous energy.
2. Employee Training: Employers are required to train employees on the purpose and use of energy control procedures and the hazards associated with the release of hazardous energy.
3. Lockout/Tagout Devices: Lockout devices (e.g., locks) and tagout devices must be used to isolate equipment from its energy source, providing a visual indication that the equipment is in a de-energized state.

Machine Guarding (29 CFR 1910.212): The Machine Guarding standard aims to protect workers from machinery hazards by implementing proper guards on moving parts. Key requirements include:

1. Hazard Assessment: Employers must assess the machinery in their workplaces to identify and evaluate potential hazards associated with moving parts.
2. Guarding Installation: Employers must install guards on machinery to prevent contact with hazardous moving parts. Guards must be securely fixed and provide adequate protection.
3. Employee Training: Employers are required to train employees on safe machine operation and the importance of using guards to prevent injuries.

Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134): The Respiratory Protection standard focuses on protecting workers from inhaling harmful substances. Key elements include:

1. Written Respiratory Protection Program: Employers must develop and implement a written program outlining procedures for selecting, using, and maintaining respirators.
2. Fit Testing: Employees must undergo fit testing to ensure that respirators provide a proper seal and protection.
3. Medical Evaluations: Employers must provide medical evaluations to determine employees’ ability to use respirators safely.
4. Employee Training: Employers are required to train employees on the proper use, limitations, and maintenance of respirators.

Fall Protection (29 CFR 1910 Subpart D): Fall Protection standards in general industry address the prevention of falls. Key requirements include:

1. Guardrails and Covers: Employers must provide guardrails, safety nets, or covers on walking/working surfaces where employees may be exposed to fall hazards.
2. Personal Fall Arrest Systems: Employers must ensure the proper use and maintenance of personal fall arrest systems, including harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points.
3. Training: Employers are required to provide training on fall hazards and the use of fall protection systems.

These OSHA standards collectively contribute to the overall goal of creating safer workplaces by addressing specific hazards and ensuring that employers take necessary measures to protect their employees.