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Monday, March 25, 2013

Drug Testing


Q: We have suspicion that one of our subcontractor's employees is using drugs while working on our jobsite.
A: If the employee is a subcontractor working on your site you can require drug testing such as pre-employment, random, post-accident, etc. 

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Fire Extinguisher’s on Forklifts


Q: What would be your recommendation for fire extinguishers on forklift trucks; is this mandatory by OSHA?

A: If the forklift comes from the manufacturer with a fire extinguisher then it must be properly maintained and inspected. If it does not come with one then it falls under OSHA’s fire extinguisher regulation. Whether it is fueled by propane, gas/diesel, or battery then it would be considered a Class B fire hazard and is required to be within 50 feet of a fire extinguisher at all times. If the forklift is operated outside of the 50 foot travel distance then it is recommended that one be mounted on the forklift. Lastly, all modifications and additions to forklifts need to be approved by the manufacturer.

To see if your facility is OSHA compliant, contact LSCI to set up a mock OSHA inspection.

Monday, March 18, 2013

Storing Oxygen and Acetylene


Q: What are the requirements for storing oxygen and acetylene tanks inside a building?

A: Inside of buildings, cylinders shall be stored in a well-protected, well-ventilated, dry location, at least 20 (6.1 m) feet from highly combustible materials such as oil or excelsior. Cylinders should be stored in definitely assigned places away from elevators, stairs, or gangways. Assigned storage spaces shall be located where cylinders will not be knocked over or damaged by passing or falling objects, or subject to tampering by unauthorized persons. Cylinders shall not be kept in non-ventilated enclosures such as lockers and cupboards.  (1910.253(b)(2)(ii))

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Stickers on Hardhats

Q: Is there a regulation or standard that states a company may not apply stickers to a hard hat?

A: No there is no regulation or standard stating that but one thing that you want to ensure is that the sticker being applied will not affect the shell of the hardhat. Some stickers contain adhesives that may break down the outer shell and reduce the original protection rating. It is recommended to keep the stickers to a minimum so you can always see the shell and ensure that it is still in good condition.

Friday, March 8, 2013

Forklift Train-the-Trainer Certifications

Q: Do the train-the-trainer certifications received by two of our employees have an expiration date, or a time frame in which they have to get re-certified?

A: No, the train-the-trainer certification does not have an expiration date. However, if the certified employees are also operators, then they would need to be re-certified every three years. You can also do a refresher training as time progresses.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

OSHA & Labor Law Posters

Q: Do I need to post a new OSHA poster and Labor Law poster each year?

A: The OSHA poster does not need to be updated annually.  The labor law posters do need to be updated annually.