OSHA Safety Labels, Is That All

I'm always surprised when I read the OSHA press releases about the fines they've proposed. You'd think that company's had never heard about safety, or just didn't care about safety. And maybe that's the case. They have their eye on the dollar and don't really care about what happens.

The next step up seems to be those who do care and do comply with OSHA codes and regulations. That's great and it produces a safer workplace. But is complying with OSHA everything that can b e done to have a safe workplace? Is it everything you should you, or should you do more?

I take the position that in addition to meeting OSHA requirements for safety labels, I should evaluate my facility to see whether there are other labels and signs that I need. Sure it makes good economic sense, but it also makes sense personally for you and your employees. Yes, a potential hazard has been marked by a label, but why not use a sign to remind employees about the hazard well before they reach it? That way they'll be sure to have the needed PPE and tools.

But don't go too far. There is also the potential for information overload. Providing too much information, in particular if it is not immediately useful, can result in all labels and signs being ignored. Then instead of a safe workplace, accidents will start to increase.

The bottom line... use common sense when installing safety labels and signs. Meet OSHA requirements, but examine your facility to be sure it is truly a safe workplace.