New businesses can
benefit greatly from consulting OSHA and are encouraged to do so.
Dont Be Afraid Of
OSHA
New companies are often
intimidated to contact OSHA. Misconceptions about requirements or fear of
compliance can serve up a huge disadvantage to a new business. OSHA can be a
prime source of free educational and training material for both employee
and business owner. Free forms for recoordkeeping can also be obtained from OSHA.
The first step to insure your new business operates safely is obtaining the
personal knowledge about compliance, laws and regulations for your
industry. OSHA can walk you through this process and has many publications and
resources for ongoing help. Contacting OSHA should be one of the initial
proirities of the start up phase.
When Should You
Contact OSHA
You should contact OSHA as
soon as possible. Prior to beginning service, prior to employee or
subcontractor hiring and even prior to accepting your first customer. You
should contact OSHA even if you plan to initially perform all duties yourself.
Why? It is far easier to make sure you are in compliance and operating safely
at this stage. Implementing necessary changes later can be an ongoing and timely
process. You will also be knowledgeable when discussing this topic with
potential clients. Arm yourself with the knowledge and requirements early on as
this is when you will also have the schedule allowance.
Topics To Research
With OSHA
These are a few areas
directly related to our industry. Consult OSHA to ensure you have all
the necessary information.
Bloodborne Pathogens : Identifying, Exposure, Clean Up And Disposal
Procedures
Compliance : Posters, Recordkeeping And Reporting - Exposure,
Illness, Medical Treatment, Days away from Work
Training : Procedures and Best Practices, Use And Disposal Of
Personal Protection Equipment
Policies : Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention And Policy,
First Aid Policy, Personal Protective Equipment Plan, General Safety Rules
How Do I Contact OSHA
Local Office : Schedule a
consultation at your local OSHA office by phone
Website : www.osha.gov or
www.dol.gov
Office of Small Business Assistance
Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs
200 Constitution Avenue, NW - Room N-3700
Washington, DC 20210
(202) 693-2213