Safety is vital in manufacturing work. It’s not only legally required but also an ethical obligation for managers and owners to ensure the well-being of the employees on the production floor. In fact, OSHA has developed industry-specific resources for 17 different manufacturing sectors.
Manufacturing safety standards are designed to ensure safe workplaces and practices. Read on to learn more about standards to help keep your manufacturing team safe.
Hazards and Manufacturing Safety Concerns
The production floor is full of potential hazards. The biggest of these are:
- Machinery dangers
- Noise pollution
- Electrical components
- Chemicals
- Workplace accidents
- Inadequate training
As a manager, part of mitigating the risks involved with manufacturing and production is to become aware of them. Extensive knowledge of manufacturing industry safety standards helps keep your employees safe.
The Common Safety Standards Managers Should Know
While every workplace has its unique setup and risks, there are commonalities between them. These six manufacturing safety standards are the most commonly mandated and regulated, making it vital for managers to know them.
1. Personal Protective Equipment and Chemical Management
PPE includes items such as masks, respirators, hard hats, steel-toe boots, ear plugs, gloves, body shields and goggles. Using the right equipment can significantly reduce the risk of chemical exposure, foreign objects in the eyes, and other injuries due to exposure. Managers should hold regular sessions training employees on the proper use of PPE and the identification, safe storage, and labeling of chemicals and other hazardous substances.
2. Noise Control
Workplace supervisors should ensure that proper hearing protection is available to all employees working in loud environments. OSHA specifies the noise levels that require PPE or other safety measures.
Earmuffs and earplugs can preserve hearing in industries where employees experience prolonged noise exposure. Sound barriers can also be part of manufacturing safety protocols.
3. Machine Guarding
OSHA requires companies to properly guard machines. Every set of equipment and machinery should be fitted with guards to prevent workers from accidentally making contact with moving parts. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep these functioning correctly and make any necessary repairs.
4. Electrical Safety in Manufacturing
Electricity is essential to power the production floor, but workers should always treat it with respect. Managers must train workers on lockout and tagout procedures and emphasize using insulated tools to avoid electrical shock.
5. Ergonomic Workstations
There are legal stipulations regarding ergonomics in the workplace. Companies should invest in tools and workspaces designed to relieve stresses on employees’ bodies and reduce the chances of repetitive strain injuries.
6. Training Programs
One of the most important elements of manufacturing safety is training. OSHA requires companies to provide manufacturing safety tips and instructions for properly operating machinery, using safety equipment, and responding to different types of emergencies. The more informed workers are, the safer the workplace will be.
Improve Manufacturing Safety With Signs
Another key aspect of keeping employees safe is manufacturing safety signage. Post signs to remind workers of proper procedures or direct them to avoid dangerous situations. For a wide variety of OSHA-compliant safety signs for manufacturing, including chemical identity, machine safety, eye protection, and hearing protection required signs, visit ComplianceSigns.com.
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