[Home](/)/[Resources](/resources)/OSHA Workplace Safety USOSHA Compliance # OSHA Workplace Safety The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces workplace safety standards to protect employees from hazards. Understanding key standards like Hazard Communication, machine guarding, and PPE requirements is essential for employers and manufacturers of workplace equipment. Copy Link[Share on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/?text=https%3A%2F%2Fkrono-labs.com%2Fguides%2Fosh-workplace-safety) At a glance Key standards 4 HazCom requirements 4 FAQs 5 ## Key OSHA standards ### Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) Requires employers to develop and implement a written hazard communication program, maintain safety data sheets (SDS), label containers, and train employees on chemical hazards. Applies to: All employers with employees exposed to hazardous chemicals in the workplace Key requirements: Written program, SDS for each chemical, proper labeling, employee training ### Machine Guarding (29 CFR 1910.212) Requires guarding of machine parts to prevent employee contact with hazardous moving parts such as points of operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, and flying chips/sparks. Applies to: Employers using machinery with hazardous moving parts in the workplace Key requirements: Point of operation guards, nip point guards, rotating part guards, safety devices ### Personal Protective Equipment (29 CFR 1910 Subpart I) Requires employers to assess workplace hazards, select appropriate PPE, train employees on proper use and care, and maintain PPE in good condition. Applies to: All employers where PPE is necessary to protect employees from workplace hazards Key requirements: Hazard assessment, PPE selection, employee training, PPE maintenance ### Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1910.147) Requires procedures to control hazardous energy during machine servicing and maintenance to prevent unexpected startup or energy release. Applies to: Employers with equipment requiring servicing where hazardous energy exists Key requirements: Energy control procedures, employee training, periodic inspections, lockout/tagout devices ## Hazard Communication requirements Written Hazard Communication Program Employers must develop and maintain a written program describing how hazard communication will be addressed in the workplace. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Maintain SDS for each hazardous chemical in the workplace, ensure they are readily accessible to employees, and keep them current. Container Labeling Ensure all containers of hazardous chemicals are properly labeled with product identifier, signal word, hazard statements, pictograms, and supplier information. Employee Training Train employees on hazardous chemicals in their work area, how to read labels and SDS, and protective measures before initial assignment and when new hazards are introduced. ## NRTL program ### Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) OSHA recognizes independent laboratories that test and certify products for workplace safety. NRTL certification is often required for electrical equipment used in workplaces. ### NRTL Mark Products certified by an NRTL bear the NRTL's mark (e.g., UL, ETL, CSA). This mark indicates the product has been tested to applicable safety standards. ### Acceptance by OSHA OSHA accepts NRTL-certified products as meeting safety requirements, reducing the need for employers to independently verify product safety. ## Common compliance mistakes Assuming OSHA doesn't apply because you're a small business - most employers with employees are covered Incomplete hazard communication program - missing SDS, improper labeling, or inadequate training Not conducting regular hazard assessments - workplace hazards change over time Improper machine guarding - missing guards, bypassed safety devices, or inadequate maintenance Inadequate lockout/tagout procedures - not covering all energy sources or failing to train employees Not maintaining required records - OSHA requires documentation of training, inspections, and programs ## Frequently asked questions ### Does OSHA apply to my business? OSHA covers most private sector employers and their workers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and other US jurisdictions. Some very small businesses may be exempt from some inspections, but most safety standards still apply. Public sector employees are covered by state OSHA plans in states with approved plans. If you have employees, OSHA likely applies. ### What is the difference between consumer and workplace safety requirements? Consumer safety (CPSC) focuses on products used by consumers in homes. Workplace safety (OSHA) focuses on protecting employees in occupational settings. The same physical product may need to meet both sets of requirements - CPSC for consumer sales, OSHA for workplace use. Requirements can differ significantly. ### Do I need NRTL certification for my products? NRTL certification is required for certain electrical equipment and other products used in workplaces under OSHA standards. If your product is intended for workplace use and falls under OSHA standards that reference NRTL certification, you should obtain certification from an OSHA-recognized NRTL. This is separate from FCC or other certifications. ### How often must I train employees on hazard communication? Employees must be trained at the time of initial assignment and whenever a new hazard is introduced into their work area. Refresher training is not explicitly required at set intervals, but OSHA expects employers to ensure employees remain knowledgeable. Many companies conduct annual refresher training as best practice. ### What are the penalties for OSHA violations? OSHA penalties vary by violation type and severity. Serious violations can result in penalties up to $15,625 per violation. Willful or repeated violations can reach $156,259 per violation. Criminal penalties may apply for willful violations resulting in death. Beyond fines, violations can lead to stop-work orders and reputational damage. **Disclaimer:** This guide provides general information about OSHA requirements. Workplace-specific determinations require analysis of applicable OSHA standards. Always verify current requirements with OSHA resources or qualified safety professionals. [ Map your product, free Every standard, document, and test that applies — free, no account required. Start mapping](/platform/new)[ Want an expert to handle your compliance for you? One consultant from Krono's compliance team takes your product from requirements to legal sale, with a fixed quote before any work starts. 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