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Prep for safety during winter lull

Category: Build-Remodel-Topics
11/26/2023

Critical for your training calendar: OSHA emphasis programs

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by Melissa Olheiser, OHST, OECS Regional Director​​​​​​

It’s that time of year! We are preparing for (or already into) the winter season.

As jobsites tend to get a little less hectic, now is a suitable time to remind you about OSHA’s current National Emphasis Programs (NEPs) and Regional Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs). When planning your 2024 annual training, remember to account for training that is addressed in the NEPs and LEPs. 

NEPs and LEPs are temporary programs focusing on specific hazards or high-hazard industries. OSHA gathers data collected from injury and illness reports, inspection findings, NIOSH reports and other sources to shift their resources to communicate and reduce hazards that are likely to cause serious injuries and fatalities.

Click here for a link to the current NEPs.

Here are a few programs to mention that are relatable to the construction industry:

  • Fall Prevention/Protection
  • Heat
  • Respirable Crystalline Silica
  • Trenching and Excavating

Click here to access the current regional LEPs.

North Dakota in is Region 8 and Minnesota is in Region 5. A few programs to highlight in both regions are:

  • Fall Hazards in Construction
  • Powered Industrial Vehicles

One item to note, not all regional LEPs include the entire region, some are city-specific directives. When reviewing the complete list of LEPs, you will want to reference “action offices” in the abstract of the directive.

 

For more information or assistance, contact OECS.

OECS’s full name is OSHA + Environmental Compliance Systems, but they are NOT OSHA. Their experts are here to help you comply, keep your crew safe and avoid fines. Plain and simple. HBA of F-M has a partnership with OECS offering discounted services to members.

  • Don’t have the time to prepare or plan for annual training? Don’t have a trainer or resources? Let OECS help with a "Build our Own Safety Day." How long? 2 hours, 4 hours or 6 hours – you decide! Contact Brian Lauwers for details.  
  • Don’t forget, OECS also offers members one free jobsite assessment in the Fargo-Moorhead area. As well as discounts on many of their safety services including jobsite audits and customized safety plans.


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