The safety of the workers is of the utmost importance in every building site since there are numerous dangers in this job. Thus, explore the vital function of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in enhancing construction site safety standards.
(Photo : Pexels/Quang Nguyen Vinh)
What is OSHA?
OSHA enforces rules and regulations to mitigate health and safety hazards in workplaces throughout the United States. Aside from ensuring that workers are provided with appropriate training and help before beginning their positions, they act as regulators to ensure that workplaces are safe and healthy for employees. Since they are specified in Part 1910 of Title 29 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), OSHA standards are also referred to as OSHA regulations or OSHA requirements. Accordingly, a collection of material and equipment standards, recommendations, and instructions for employers to reduce worker risk while performing work make up an OSHA safety standard. When OSHA rules are followed, workers are protected from potentially lethal hazards and health risks.
Moreover, companies in the construction industry are required to be current on OSHA's requirements. They are responsible for conducting inspections, providing training programs, and providing resources to assist construction companies in complying with safety standards. When firms comply with OSHA guidelines, they not only protect the health and safety of their employees but also assist them in avoiding incurring expensive fines and keeping a favorable reputation within their industry. It makes creating a more secure and productive working environment for all parties involved possible.
On the other hand, this organization protects workers in the private sector in each of the fifty states. Employees of state and local governments are only eligible for OSHA coverage if they are employed in states with programs approved by OSHA. Non-compliance with OSHA regulations extends to self-employed individuals and personnel safeguarded by other federal agencies, including the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
Also Read: World's First 3D-Printed Mosque in Saudi Arabia Completed in Just 6 Months
Consequences of Non-Compliance in OSHA Standard
When an employer is found to be in breach of the standards provided by OSHA, they may be subject to various consequences, including the payment of violation fees, the possibility of incarceration, and other consequences. The OSHA has compiled a list of the different punishments that can be imposed on companies that breach the regulations. This organization defines a recurring violation as every instance where a standard is breached after the initial charge for the same or similar offense. For every repeat violation, an employer may be subject to a fine of up to $70,000 per offense. Thus, if they fail to pay the penalty for an OSHA violation that occurred in the past, an employer could be subject to a punishment of up to $7,000 for each day that the violation continues after the abatement date that was initially established.
Furthermore, fake applications, records, or reports may result in a $10,000 fine, a maximum of six months in prison, or both. For those who violate the publishing rules, a civil penalty of up to $7000 may be implemented. It is also possible to incur a fine of up to $5,000 and a potential prison sentence of up to three years if you cause harm to a compliance officer while they are conducting an inspection.
Related Article: Top 6 Most Violated OSHA Standards in the Construction Industry
