Compliance For OSHA 1910.269
OSHA has published the updated ruling related to the safety standard in the construction and repair of electric power generation, transmission and distribution. The updated standard which became law on July 14, 2014 includes some significant changes to the PPE requirements for electric workers.
OSHA did delay the effective date for some provisions which will be fully implemented by April 1, 2015
Below are some of the steps you have to take in order to ensure that your company is compliant with OSHA’s final rule for 29 CFR 1910.269.
- Identify employees that would require PPE under the new rule and what additional items you need to purchase
Under the revised ruling, employees who work with electric power beyond 600 volts or those who face hazards greater than 2 calories, should be provided with head-to-toe FR clothing. Based on this minimum requirement, aside from the usual FR gear, workers would need gloves, boots, and head and face protection. Evaluate who among your workers will need new or additional gear.
- Source PPE early to ensure compliance by deadline
The deadline for OSHA 1910.269 compliance is April 01, 2015. Based on the additional requirements, it is reasonable to expect that there will be a spike in demand nearing deadline. For your business operations to continue without glitches, make sure to look for the right PPE and more importantly, the best company to supply them, as early as possible.
A company like Safety Protection Warehouse can provide end-to-end solutions for your FR needs. Contacting them early will give the company ample time to recommend the best equipment and to supply all necessary PPE before deadline.
Engaging a supplier early will also help you get all your questions and concerns answered by PPE experts.
- Establish a Care and Maintenance Training and Replacement Program for PPE
Under the revised ruling, it is clear that OSHA does not require industrial laundering for equipment. It also does not require that the company provide the laundering service for the employees. It was, however, made clear that employers who would rely on employees to care for their equipment should provide training on proper laundering techniques and procedures to the workers.
You can enlist the help of Safety Protection Warehouse to provide the initial training for your employees on home laundering techniques for PPE.
It is also the employer’s responsibility to regularly inspect the equipment for any damages that would require replacement or repair. This could not be outsourced to service providers. A competent supplier can provide the recommendations on how best to conduct inspections.
As for equipment replacement, building a good relationship with your initial supplier can really make transactions related to equipment purchases and replacements run smoothly.
Terry Smeader
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Tags: 29 CFR 1910.269, Compliance, Electrical, OSHA, workers
