Falls continue to be a leading cause of workplace fatalities and injuries. Every year, thousands of workers across various industries are exposed to the risk of falling from heights. In industries like construction, falls are the number one cause of workplace fatalities.
On May 1, 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a new National Emphasis Program (NEP) to reduce injuries and/or fatalities due to falls. This NEP is focused on all industries.
What OSHA is Looking For
Through this new program, OSHA will conduct site visits and may request several pieces of key information. Your business should be prepared if an OSHA representative comes to your facility, so it is important that documents are ready when requested.
Here’s what to expect as OSHA completes this process:
- OSHA may request your business training records.
- OSHA may require copies of OSHA logs for current and previous years.
- An OSHA representative may tour your facility, taking notes and photographs.
- OSHA may conduct Interviews with your employees.
Steps to Take
There are several key steps your organization can take to prepare for your participation in the NEP.
These steps include:
- Ensure you are addressing and rectifying any current safety issues
- Ensure all employee training is documented.
- Document any corrective actions that have been addressed for both training and safety issues, such as issues with equipment.
RCM&D can offer your business additional assistance to help identify working at height exposures, develop an action plan, review training and ensure your program meets OSHA’s requirements.
Questions?
Now is the time to prepare for an OSHA NEP Inspection. Contact an RCM&D advisor today to schedule your risk assessment and ensure you are prepared for your Inspection.