OSHA Standards for General Industry

The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a government organization dedicated to improving the safety of workers. OSHA produces regulations for worker health and safety in construction, maritime settings, and general industry. General industry standards are outlined in OSHA Standard 29 Part 1910. These regulations apply to all manufacturing and industrial fields not covered by other specialized OSHA standards.

Walking and Working Surfaces

Subpart D of Part 1910 covers walking and working surfaces, which are often a major cause of falls and injury. Under this standard, all work spaces and passage ways must be kept free of clutter. They must be maintained in sanitary condition, kept dry, and should be free of trip hazards like holes or loose flooring. Mechanical and electrical equipment should be given proper clearance to allow employees to safely pass by, and guardrails or covers should be installed to protect workers from falls.

Hazardous Materials

Section G of Part 1910 covers ventilation requirements, including exhaust and air supply systems. Subpart H addresses hazardous material exposure, including compressed air storage and handling, as well as control of dangerous chemicals. This section also regulates waste disposal and levels of protection required for each class of hazardous material. For regulations on toxic substances such as asbestos, gases, or medical waste, refer to Subpart Z. This section limits exposure of toxic substances to those employees who have been trained in their handling.

Personal Protection

Personal protective equipment is covered under Section 1910 Subpart I. This section states that all workers who will be exposed to hazards must be supplied with appropriate protective gear. This includes safety glasses, respirators, hard hats, boots, or full-body suits. The employer must be trained in the proper use of these items, and the employer must provide this gear at no cost to the worker. Subpart I also addresses the use of harnesses and fall protection.

Fire Safety

Subpart L deals with fire safety for employees and property. It dictates the number and placement of portable fire extinguishers based on fire risk, as well as requirements for sprinkler system design. Employee fire alarms and brigades are also detailed, as are the requirements for smoke and heat detectors. As part of this standard, sufficient escape paths, or "means of egress," shall be provided to help workers safely evacuate the building. These escape paths extend to trenches, elevated surfaces, and to employees working on specialized equipment.

General Standards

General environmental regulations are discussed in Subpart J. These include sanitation and restroom requirements, disposal of waste and liquids, and standards for temporary work spaces. This section also lists a safety color code used to mark hazardous materials, as well as signage and tagging requirements. Subpart J also addresses medical and first aid care and training, as well as the types of medical devices that must be present for various situations (such as oxygen or back boards).

References

• OSHA Standard 1910

Resources

• OSHA