There is a lot more to undertaking a commercial construction project than simply knowing how to read blueprints and supervise skilled tradespeople. Construction can be dangerous work, involving lots of heavy equipment or specialized tools and people walking around on I-beams and scaffolding. Each stage of the project carries the risk of something going wrong, which could lead to project delays or, worst case scenario, unsafe working conditions resulting in serious injury or death.
As a business owner or project manager, it is incumbent upon you to establish a safe and healthy working environment that puts the well-being of your team as the highest priority. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets out a number of regulations to help you do just that.
If you want to complete your commercial construction project without any major setbacks, then take a look at these reasons why OSHA compliance is one of the best things you can do for your commercial construction project.
Complying with OSHA’s regulations is:
Required by the federal government
In 1970, the federal government passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act that requires employers to keep their work environments safe for workers. It applies to all businesses that contain one or more employees with the exception of independent contractors or freelancers. Failure to comply with the safety regulations set down by OSHA can result in safety violations, expensive citations, or even cause you to lose your license. Any of these issues will drastically slow down the progress of your project, if not halt it all together, so it is definitely in your best interest to follow the rules. Some examples of potential OSHA violations may include:
- Toxic fumes
- Broken equipment
- Electrical hazards
- Unsafe practices like push starting tractors and operating circular saws with one hand
Good business
Skimping on safety programs to save money may seem like a good idea at first, but it will always come back to haunt you later. You will likely spend more time and money on unnecessary repairs or medical bills for your employees than if you had followed the OSHA regulations at the outset. In fact, according to OSHA’s official website, you can save $4-$6 for every $1 invested when you establish an effective and safe program at your job site. Establishing a safe working environment is not only the right thing to do, but it lowers costs, increases productivity, and raises employee morale.
Essential for protecting your employees
Without proper safety measures in place, it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt. Many workplace accidents can be prevented with a comprehensive safety plan that focuses on preventing workplace hazards and training employees to follow all safety standards.
Are you in compliance?
Prevent the onset of willful citations by making sure you are in compliance with OSHA regulations. To find out your industry standards, simply go to the OSHA website or call on the expert commercial construction consultants at George Rullo and Associates. We are happy to help you figure out what your company needs to become OSHA compliant.
For more information on OSHA compliance, please call 732-810-1049 today!