OSHA Regulations for the Construction Industry

Construction work is dangerous, and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration says that more fatality injuries occur in construction than in any other occupational industry. As such, strict OSHA regulations serve to protect construction workers from danger in effort to preserve their health and safety.

Fall Protection Standards

• OSHA says that falls are the number one leading cause of death in the construction industry. In response, OSHA requires all unprotected sides, edges, holes or wall openings to be guarded. Guardrail, safety net or personal fall arrest systems must be used whenever workers are exposed to a fall of 6 feet or more.

Struck-By Standards

• Construction workers are at risk for being struck by falling or flying objects on the site. OSHA requires workers to always wear hardhats, avoid working beneath cranes and other heavy machinery and barricade, or post caution signs around, high-hazard areas.

Trenching Standards

• OSHA regulations for trenching safety require accessible and safe exits out of the trench to be used in an emergency. Ladders, stairways or ramps must be provided as a safe egress option in trenches that are 4 feet or deeper. For additional safety, ramps used in place of steps must have a non-slip surface to avoid injuries.