Contact with Object or Equipment
Welders and machinists work in close proximity to equipment that is often hot or sharp, putting them at risk for lacerations, burns, punctures, and even amputations. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as welding helmets, aprons, face shields, and cut-resistant gloves are critical in preventing serious injuries. Installing machine guards and protective barriers between machinery can also provide an additional layer of protection for workers.
Hazardous Chemicals
Each production stage of assembling a motor vehicle requires the use of harsh chemicals such as adhesives, acids, bases, and solvents. Breathing in fumes or exposing the skin to these chemicals on a regular basis can severely affect the skin, often causing skin irritation and chemical burns. To protect workers, OSHA recommends that auto manufacturers install adequate ventilation and exhaust systems to protect workers from harmful gases and vapors in the air. Additionally, protective gloves, suits, and respirators should be worn in the event an exposure does occur.
Noise
In auto manufacturing plants, excessive noise comes with the territory. Noise-induced hearing loss is a common side effect of this environment and can be permanent if the worker is repeatedly exposed over time. OSHA requires all employees exposed to 85 decibels or higher over an eight-hour workday to wear hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs. If noise levels cannot be reduced, a hearing conservation program must be in place to monitor worker exposure.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Oily production floors, uneven walking surfaces, and loose equipment or tools in walkways are common culprits that contribute to falls each year. The proper housekeeping protocols must be in place at each facility to mitigate risk, with slip-resistant footwear being worn at all times.
Sprains and Strains
Overexertion occurs when workers perform repetitive and strenuous tasks over an extended period without a break. Excessive lifting, lowering, pulling, or pushing can take a toll on the body and lead to severe ergonomic injuries. Enforcing regularly scheduled breaks and educating employees on proper lifting techniques are effective in preventing unnecessary injuries.
Struck by Object
Molten metal splatter and flying particles from welding can injure the hands, eyes, and face. In addition to wearing the proper FR clothing and gloves, workers should be equipped with the appropriate face and eye protection to prevent injury caused by UV radiation and welding sparks.
Regulations
Compared to the potential loss in productivity and expenses arising from workplace incidents, a proper safety program is well worth the investment. To prevent worker injuries and remain compliant, workplace safety programs should be structured according to OSHA regulations and guidelines. A successful program should encompass the proper PPE as well as training on operational procedures, and risks employees might encounter in the workplace.
OSHA 1910.95 - Occupational noise exposure. OSHA 1910.95 - Occupational noise exposure.
OSHA 1910.134 - Respiratory Protection.When effective engineering controls are not feasible, appropriate respirators shall be used.
OSHA 1910.147 - The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout). This standard covers the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment in which the unexpected energization or start up of the machines or equipment or release of stored energy, could harm employees.
OSHA 1910.212 - General requirements for all machines. Types of machine guarding. One or more methods of machine guarding shall be provided to protect the operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards such as those created by point of operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, flying chips and sparks.
OSHA 1910.252 - General requirements. Welding, Cutting and Brazing.
OSHA 1910.1200 - Hazard Communication. The purpose of this section is to ensure that the hazards of all chemicals produced or imported are classified, and that information concerning the classified hazards is transmitted to employers and employees.
