Understanding what makes a job site safe is essential during a job search. You want to work for an employer who prioritizes employee health and well-being.
Knowing what to ask before accepting a job increases the likelihood of working in a safe environment. The following suggestions can help.
What Are the Dangers of the Job?
Under the OSH Act of 1970, employers are required to comply with occupational safety and health standards and applicable rules, regulations, and orders. They must disclose workplace hazards, such as exposure to chemicals, working at heights, and working with or near dangerous tools, equipment, or machinery.
Are There Any Job-Related Hazards?
Repeated exposure to job-related hazards can have long-term effects. For instance, working in an environment with high noise levels can cause hearing loss. Also, working with chemicals, dusts, and radiation increases the risk of cancer and other diseases.
OSHA requires employers to disclose hazardous chemical information and training for safely working with materials at the time of the initial assignment and whenever a new hazardous chemical is introduced:
- The information and training should include specific types of hazards, such as flammability and carcinogenicity.
- Labels and safety data sheets with chemical-specific details must be available.
- Employers should provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and train employees on proper use.
When Would I Receive Job Safety Training?
Employers are required to provide safety training on a new hire’s first day of work. Common topics include:
- PPE
- Machinery and machine guarding
- Materials handling and storage
- Hazardous materials
- Commercial driving operations
- Noise exposure
- First aid
- Medical services
- Emergency planning
- Exit routes
Do You Conduct Regular Safety Meetings?
Although OSHA does not require regular health and safety meetings, regular education and training sessions are encouraged to keep employees informed about safety guidelines. These meetings are important for high-hazard industries such as manufacturing and light industry.
Would I Be Expected to Wear Safety Equipment and Receive Training on How to Use It?
Under OSHA, employers are required to train on the following PPE topics:
- When PPE is required
- Which PPE is necessary
- Proper wear, adjustment, and use of PPE
- Limitations of PPE
- Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of PPE
Retraining on PPE is required under the following circumstances:
- Changes in the workplace make previous PPE training obsolete
- Changes in the types of PPE used make previous training obsolete
- An employee displays inadequate knowledge of the use of assigned PPE
Find a Job in a Safe Work Environment in Colorado
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