OSHA Updates Amputations National Emphasis Program
The document laying out the procedures for implement the program includes a list of industries with high numbers and rates of amputations, as reported to BLS. These range from machine shops to sawmills, retail and commercial bakeries, meat processing, and manufacturing various types of food.
OSHA has updated its National Emphasis Program on amputations with a revised document on the policies and procedures for carrying it out. The directive contains a list of industries with high numbers and rates of amputations, as reported to BLS. These range from machine shops to sawmills, retail and commercial bakeries, meat processing, and manufacturing various types of food.
OSHA used current enforcement data and BLS injury data to assist with site selection targeting, the same methodology used in the prior NEP. According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, manufacturing employers reported that 2,000 workers suffered amputations in 2013. The rate of amputations in the manufacturing sector was more than twice as much (1.7 per 10,000 full-time employees) as that of all private industry (0.7), according to OSHA.
"Workers injured from unguarded machinery and equipment can suffer permanent disability or lose their lives," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "This directive will help ensure that employers identify and eliminate serious workplace hazards and provide safe workplaces for all workers."
The directive applies to general industry workplaces in which any machinery or equipment likely to cause amputations are present. OSHA said inspections will include an evaluation of employee exposures during operations such as clearing jams; cleaning, oiling, or greasing machines or machine pans; and locking out machinery to prevent its accidental start-up.