Compliance with OSHA: How Technology Can Help Get You Ready

Construction management teams prioritize the safety of their workers, but rules and regulations can be confusing to keep up with. On top of that, visits and surprise inspections from OSHA and its state-level affiliates can cause anxiety among even the most diligent of construction firms. So how can contractors ensure their job sites are safe and issue-free? According to Cotney Attorneys & Consultants’ Trent Cotney, preparedness is key.

In this episode of the Mobile Workforce Podcast, Trent shares why an OSHA inspection doesn’t have to spell trouble. He shares advice on employing the right strategies, documentation and training to ensure your business is safe and compliant with current laws.

Key Takeaways:

1. Most OSHA violations are business failures: Many times when there is a safety issue that OSHA would issue a write-up for, it is tied to a business failure such as not knowing what the process is for an inspection or not knowing your rights during the inspection. Trent says these can be avoided by knowing what OSHA is looking for, being honest, and being cooperative.
2. Technology doesn’t replace real-world safety training: The job site is changing rapidly. While toolbox talks are helpful in training workers on processes, procedures and safety regulations, they do not replace the need for real-world training. Make sure that the topics – especially those around safety – that require hands on training are given priority away from the screens.
3. Proactively manage your safety program: Don’t wait until an inspection is scheduled to get a clear picture of your safety program. This leaves you little time to make improvements where they’re needed. Keep in mind there are situations in which OSHA shows up to job sites unannounced. In this case, there’s no time to prepare and you risk violations. Make it a priority to know the status of your safety program at all times. By being proactive, you’ll be able to take action in advance and avoid costly violations.