Workplace Safety Issues

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulates workplace safety. Workplace safety training for employers, supervisors and government officials is available through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Inspections

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 allows job sites to be inspected at any time during work hours, often without prior notice to the employer.

Industrial Hygienists

Industrial hygienists identify threats to the safety of workers and develop strategies to reduce those dangers. Industrial hygienists should be consulted when implanting safety policies.

Hazards

There are a number of hazards that may afflict any given workplace, including air contaminants, chemical, biological, physical and ergonomic.

Consultation

Work site analyses conducted by trained industrial hygienists are available free of charge through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Solutions

Common paths to improving workplace safety include developing strategies to minimize worker exposure to hazards, strong supervision, cleanliness and rigorous housekeeping.

References

• OSHA: Industrial Hygiene

Resources

• NIOSH