Every year the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cites companies in the metal fabrication industry for violations, costing them millions of dollars in fines. Unsafe working conditions cost both workplaces and workers far more money indirectly as well. Onsite accidents are expensive in terms of workers’ compensation, medical treatment, damage to equipment and buildings, and lost work time. Working in the metal fabrication industry can be physically challenging, but in a shop that respects federal regulations and implements the proper safety procedures and equipment, it should not be dangerous.
What Types of Workplace Injuries Are Most Common?
Workers in the metal fabrication industry are at risk for a number of injuries, including:
- Injuries from repetitive movements, poor posture, or lifting
- Injuries from exposure to harmful materials
- Injuries from improper operation of equipment
- Injuries from unguarded areas or improper workplace layout
The good news is that, since the implementation of OSHA in 1971, workplaces have been getting safer. This is largely because employers have invested in purchasing safety equipment. Without the proper safety tools like masks, respirators, eye and ear guards, gloves, adjustable workstations, barriers, loading dock equipment, and trolleys, workers are physically vulnerable. Unfortunately, if companies do not train workers to use that equipment and require them to use it all of the time, it will be ineffective.
How Do We Prevent Injuries from Occurring?
Shop managers must first make sure that all safety equipment is installed and working correctly. Employees should have tools that are proper sized and easy to use. Facilities should be well lit and free of clutter. Safety rules and protocols should be posted in communal areas.
Shops should train staff continuously on how to use the equipment. Managers must keep regular records to ensure that new hires are aware of shop’s safety protocols. The staff as a whole should have periodic refresher courses on safety, weekly if possible. There should be clear communication from management on its expectations from employees and what the consequences are for workers who do not follow safety protocols.
Finally, the entire shop needs regular inspections. Shop managers should make daily rounds to make sure the safety equipment is in place and functional and employees are utilizing it correctly. When small accidents or near misses occur in the shop, managers need to walk their employees through what happened. They should point out any missteps in protocol or neglect of safety and keep a record of problems, along with the steps they have taken to correct them.
A shop that makes a commitment to creating and maintaining safety protocols will experience fewer workplace injuries, accidents, and losses. We at D+M Metal Products take safety seriously. Our efforts to ensure a safe work environment and avoid injuries have been recognized. The Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) and CNA awarded us the Safety Award of Honor. We believe that safety regulations are in place to help everyone. This includes workers, employers, and the industry as a whole. A safer shop is a better, more productive, and more profitable shop.