ABA Family Legal Guide
Law and the Workplace
On the Job
Workplace Safety
What types of workplace conditions do the health and safety standards address?
The standards regulate such issues as
- the safety of working areas such as ladders, scaffolding, stairs, and floors;
- provision of sufficient entryways and exits;
- exposure to noise, carcinogens, radiation, and other types of harmful substances;
- fire protection systems for the workplace;
- safety devices for machines and equipment used in the workplace; and
- provision of medical and first-aid services.
There are literally hundreds of standards covering all aspects of the workplace.
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Side Bar - Working With Hazardous Chemicals OHSA requires that employees who work with hazardous chemicals be informed of the types of chemicals they are working with and be trained in their handling. Chemical manufacturers and distributors are required to label containers identifying any hazardous chemicals and give appropriate hazard warnings. Employers who use such hazardous chemicals in the workplace are required to develop a written hazard communication program for their employees. As part of this program, the employer must compile a list of all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace; identify the physical and health hazards associated with these chemicals; state precautions to be used in handling the chemicals; and indicate emergency and first-aid procedures to be used in the event of a problem. This information must be made available to the employees. Employees must also receive training in detecting the presences of chemicals in the workplace and protecting themselves from hazards. |
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