Welding Curtain Use

Q: If employees are working approximately 25 feet from welding operations, is it required that welding curtains be used?

A: OSHA does not give a definitive working distance, but states that proper welding shields or curtains shall be used to protect other workers in the area. (1910.152(b)(2)(iii)). 

Entering a Dumpster

Q: We sometimes have an employee enter the dumpster on the jobsite to rearrange it. What would be the proper protection for this employee?

A: Proper PPE would need to be worn while performing this task. Cut/puncture resistant gloves, safety glasses, steel toes, etc. would need to be worn. Also, since there could be boards that have nails sticking out of them footwear with puncture resistance/steel reinforced soles would need to be worn. If the dumpster is 6 feet or higher and the worker needs to access it when it’s full proper fall protection would be required as well. To eliminate the need for fall protection, a company policy should be put in place that prohibits the worker from accessing the dumpster if the material is less than 42 inches from the top of the dumpster. Ladders can also be used outside of the dumpster if possible.

OSHA Poster In Spanish

Q: Does OSHA require us to hang the OSHA required poster in Spanish?

A: OSHA regulations do not specify or require employers to display the OSHA poster in a foreign language. However, OSHA encourages employers with Spanish-speaking workers to also display the Spanish version of the poster. 

Find out what OSHA requires at your company.