OSHA Consultation tells you what to do. CHESS helps you get it done.

A company, concerned about whether its safety program was adequate, called in Minnesota OSHA Workplace Safety Consultation (WSC) for help. WCS is a free service offered through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. They won’t impose penalties, but you must correct any hazards they identify. There is no way to dispute or disagree with their findings. But they do try to help you with correcting any problems by leaving you with lots of documents on how to write a program or specific requirements backing their findings. Their services can be useful, but they can be a bit overwhelming. This company received a laundry list of hazards that had to be abated. They could easily replace a missing faceplate and keep electrical panels clear. But they didn’t know where to start on other findings, such as documenting a hazard assessment for personal protective equipment. They called CHESS for help.

 

CHESS reviewed the report from WCS and talked with the company to find out how they operated. CHESS then drafted a comprehensive safety and health program for them, including the needed assessment of personal protective equipment, a Right to Know/Hazard Communication program, and a checklist for new employees. After we reviewed the program with the owner, CHESS provided training on fire extinguisher use and Right to Know/Hazard Communication training. We submitted the required reports to OSHA Consultation to show that the hazards were corrected. CHESS has continued to work with the company, providing annual safety training and guidance.