New OSHA information updates worker rights, safety tips

OSHA has released new and revised information that explains workers’ and employers’ rights, as well as how to protect workers from industrial hazards.

By OSHA October 17, 2011

OSHA has released new and revised information that explains workers’ and employers’ rights, as well as how to protect workers from industrial hazards.

OSHA’s Small Entity Compliance Guide for Respiratory Protection Standard provides small businesses with a comprehensive step-by-step guide complete with checklists and commonly asked questions that will aid both employees and workers in small businesses with a better understanding of OSHA’s respiratory protection standard.

OSHA’s Workers’ Rights booklet describes the rights to which workers are legally entitled to under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The booklet covers many topics, including rights provided under OSHA standards, filing a complaint with OSHA, whistleblower protections, and educational and training resources available.

OSHA provides employers with information on their rights and responsibilities following a federal OSHA inspection. The booklet, Employer Rights and Responsibilities, explains what happens after an inspection, and defines the types of violations for which an employer may be cited as a result of an inspection.

OSHA has also published information to help protect construction, general industry and shipyard workers, and those who work outdoors.

·      Aerial Lifts Protect Yourself details measures employers must take to ensure safe use of aerial lifts by workers required to use this equipment.

·      Aerial Lift Fall Protection Over Water in Shipyards QuickCard lists ways to protect workers using aerial lifts from injuries and death resulting from equipment failure, tip-over, falls and ejection.

·      Nail Gun Safety educates construction employers and workers on how to prevent work-related nail gun injuries.

·      Protecting Workers from Heat Stress QuickCard and poster emphasizes the importance of employers providing workers with water, rest and shade to prevent workers from suffering heat illness, exhaustion and stroke.

To order free copies of these materials online, visit OSHA’s Publications page at https://www.osha.gov/pls/publications/publication.AthruZ?pType=AthruZ#S, or call OSHA’s toll free number at 800-321-6742.