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Personal Safety Responsibilities Under OSHA

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires that employers provide their workers with a safe workplace. Although OSHA does not fine employees who are in violation of OSHA regulations, the agency could possibly fine the employer if employees are seen performing their jobs in an unsafe way while an OSHA representative is on-site. While most of the health and safety responsibilities of workers under OSHA regulations fall to the employer, there are certain things that workers are expected to do to help maintain their personal safety and health while at work.

  1. Report Injuries

    • Any employee suffering from an injury at work is responsible for reporting it to a supervisor or manager. He also must seek immediate medical attention. Although the employer is required under OSHA regulations to help workers obtain immediate emergency medical care, it is up to the employee to seek out that assistance and to accept treatment. Workers who do not immediately report injuries or seek medical assistance with the help of their employer may not be able to claim worker's compensation coverage, an insurance program that pays wages while the employee is absent due to a work-related injury.

    Wear Personal Protective Equipment

    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required for many jobs in construction, manufacturing and other potentially hazardous positions. While the employer is required to help workers obtain the correct PPE for their position, it is the workers' responsibility to maintain and use this equipment on the job. Many workplaces requiring PPE as a part of their health and safety programs will take disciplinary action against an employee found not using her PPE while on the job.

    Warn Co-workers

    • Not only are workers required to practice safe work habits, they also are expected to encourage other workers to do the same. Report immediately any potentially unsafe machinery or other hazardous conditions to your employer. Warn other workers in the area so that they are aware of the situation. While performing your job, make sure you are doing it in a way that will not only keep you safe but will protect nearby employees, as well. If you see an employee performing a task in an unsafe way, be sure to speak to him about it or report it to your supervisor to help prevent workplace accidents.

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