Last week, StoneWorks participated in our second voluntary OSHA inspection. As most already know, OSHA is a government agency that enforces compliance of codes relating to workers’ safety and health. The previous inspection that we had was in 2003. There have been many changes in our company since ‘03 including new equipment, employees, and procedures. I thought it was time to call OSHA back to help us stay within compliance and prevent possible accidents.
The voluntary inspection program is something that any company can participate in. Just call or email the state OSHA office, and they will send someone out for free to inspect. Companies need not worry about penalty fines while working within the voluntary program. It’s a great way to prevent and prepare for accidents or for surprise visits by the enforcement division. The program is completely free. The participating company will have to sign an agreement promising timely correction of any violations.
Our inspector gave us a one week notice before the inspection. We spent that time, meticulously checking through all of our MSDS books, training records, forklift logs, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, etc. Going through that routine was a great reminder of the possible dangers that we work around daily. It also made us aware that few companies can possibly be 100% compliant. Try going to Wal-Mart or Lowes and asking for a material safety data sheet on a bottle of degreaser or spray paint. You will see what I mean --over an hour later with no success. 100% compliance is a great goal, but few will be able to achieve it. The laws are complex and constantly being updated. This is one more reason companies should take advantage of the voluntary program.
Our efforts were rewarded by a friendly inspection with only a few small items noted for correction. We had some ground pins missing on fans in the shop, but all were plugged into GFI’s. We had faceplates missing on electrical switches in the tool supply room. He also noted that our breaker boxes should be labeled more clearly. The corrections began immediately after the inspection. All in all, the inspection went very well. We are proud of our efforts towards offering a safer workplace to our employees and customers.
Brian Baltzegar
11/03/11