Using machinery correctly, thorough inspections can stop injuries ...

Unsafe?machinery operation continues to be a major concern for small businesses. In a?recent press release, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reminded?construction companies about the proper use of machinery.?

OSHA cited a contractor?in Arizona with three violations following the investigation into the death of a worker in August. The citations include failing to visually inspect the machinery before use, not training the employee operator to maintain safe distance?and failing to recognize trenching hazards within the workspace.?The?penalties total $8,400 and once the company receives the receipt of the citations, it has 15 business days to?comply, request an informal conference?or contest the findings.?

?OSHA continues to see tragic cases where workers die because the necessary steps were not followed to ensure quick couplers are properly connected prior to starting excavation work,? said T. Zachary Barnett, director of OSHA?s Phoenix area office. ?Employee safety must be the top priority. It is the employer?s responsibility to assess the hazards and fix them.?

Leading by example
Workplace accidents?caused?by incorrect?machinery use are avoidable. With more than?20 percent of workplace deaths occurring in construction in 2011, the industry had the highest number of compensation claims, according to Ogletree Abbott, a Texas-based law firm. Construction business owners may want to consider providing workers?refresher courses on machinery use.?In addition, it?s a good idea to talk to?employees about safe habits and knowing when?to communicate with supervisors about concerns.?With more than?95 percent of incidents caused by employer negligence and only 4 percent due to employee error, companies need to remember that safety enforcement begins at the top.

Along with retraining employees to respect safety rules, employers?may consider?setting up quarterly sessions or a designated safety month to continually remind workers?of the importance of working cautiously.?Long-term communication between business owners?and workers is vital to keeping the workplace safe for everyone.

Source: http://www.safeatworkaz.com/?p=1365

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