VIOLATIONS TO AVOID
issues will give you peace of mind should OSHA come calling.
By Max Menczer and Sara R. Hamidovic VET Environmental Engineering, LLC
T 58 // September-October 2021
he heat is finally starting to break, and fall is coming. We’re excited for the new season to start to cool things down and get back to more regular routines that it brings with it. If you have gotten off track in your routine, we’d like to talk about something that may save you a headache in the future.
As you well know, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for making sure all workplaces in the United States operate with safe practices. Thanks to them, workers across the country are protected and can rest easy. But complying with their regulations isn’t always easy! So, we’ve compiled a list of some common OSHA violations you might face. Luckily if you act now, you can still protect your employees, and avoid a citation. Let’s jump in and get started.
RACKS We’ve seen some pretty impressive racks at the auto recycling facilities we visit. OSHA can issue citations for improper rack storage or labeling. However, scant legal legislation exists specifically dedicated to racking. This can make it difficult to apply practical safety standards to this aspect of your business. Therefore, we looked into it.
What does OSHA specifically require for racking com- pliance? Generally, OSHA uses 29 CFR §1910.176 and the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to cite employers for racking viola- tions. Together, these laws state: • Employers must provide a safe workplace for employees.
• All stored materials must be stable, secure against sliding or collapse, and not present a hazard.
• Passageways must be kept clear, in good repair, and free of obstructions that can create a hazard.
• Storage areas must not accumulate materials that create trip/slip, fire, explosion, or pest hazards.
• Sufficient safe clearance must be provided for mechanical handling equipment, and clearance signs to warn of clearance limits must be provided where necessary.
During citations, OSHA can reference the manufac-
turer’s installation and maintenance instructions for a particular racking system. OSHA may also reference the standards listed in American National Standards Insti- tute/Rack Manufacturers Institute Materials Handling 16.1 (ANSI/RMI MH16.1) – Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks. What is ANSI/RMI MH16.1? ANSI/RMI MH16.1 is an industry standard that provides recommended guidelines for steel racking construction and safety. Compliance
Automotive Recycling
COMMON OSHA
COMPLIANCE
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