Wearing Jewelry at Work

Q: What are the hazards associated with wearing neckwear encircling the neck or jewelry near machines having rotating shafts or spindles?

A: In the Hand and Power Tools publication, paragraph (f) section (12) it states: “Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing, ties, or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.” In the Basics of Machine Guarding publication, the last paragraph of chapter one states: “Jewelry such as bracelets and rings, can catch on machine parts or stock and lead to serious injury by pulling a hand into the danger area.” OSHA’s general industry regulations on machine guarding and/or hand and power tools do not specifically prohibit employees from wearing jewelry. However, if the employer has recognized that wearing loose jewelry is a hazard likely to cause serious physical harm, the employer would have an obligation to address the hazard under the General Duty Clause.

Grinder Guarding

Q: When using a wire wheel on a pedestal grinder, do you have to have guarding or tool rest as if it were an abrasive wheel?

A: Yes, you must have the same guarding and tool rest as if it was just an abrasive wheel when using a wire wheel.

Fall Arrest Harness

Q: When do fall arrest harnesses need to be replaced?

A: 29 CFR 1910.66 App C(e) (v) (7) Personal fall arrest systems or components subjected to impact loading shall be immediately removed from service and shall not be used again for employee protection unless inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse.

ANSI A10.32-2004 states the service life of fall protection equipment manufactured of synthetic fiber shall be 5 years unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.

Loading A Disconnected Trailer

Q: What is the proper way to load a tractor trailer that is disconnected from the truck?

A: According to OSHA's regulations he must set the brakes and wheel blocks to prevent movement of the trailer. Also if necessary, fixed jacks may be put into place to support a semitrailer during loading or unloading when the trailer is not connected to the truck.

Recordkeeping

Q:  We had an employee strain his back at work.  The incident occurred in April, 2012. After going to an urgent care facility, he was put on restricted work duty for one week, and physical therapy for three weeks. However, the employee did not show up for any follow up appointments or physical therapy treatments.  What is the minimum amount of restricted work days I have to record?

A:  You must record the amount of time that the doctor recommended. The employee will need to see the doctor at the end of the recommended time period to see of the employee can return to full duty.  You'll need to suggest to the employee that he goes back to the doctor to confirm he is fit for regular duty, if not, there is a possibility that the workers comp and insurance can deny the employees claim.