At last it is 2017 and that means an opportunity to revise, update and plan for the year. However, as you move forward you will want to consider a few things new in 2017.
Electronic Record Keeping Policy
The most controversial policy to come this year is OSHA’s decision to begin requiring electronic submission of safety data. As of January 1st, 2017, most companies will need to begin uploading their safety data onto a website that will be provided to them by OSHA. This is expected to improve communication between OSHA and the employers as well as bring safety into a digital space.
In addition to record submission, OSHA will now be making all submitted data publicly accessible online with the belief that it is the right of customers and job applicants to see companies’ commitment to safety upfront. OSHA also hopes that by doing so, they will motivate competition amongst organizations over who has the greater safety effectiveness.
How to be compliant:
While this policy does not require your entire safety program to be electronic, doing so will certainly bring large benefits. Staying with a paper-based reporting process means more data entry and wasted time for your team. A digital reporting software will ensure that your company is compliant and will help improve your safety record so that you don’t need to worry when it becomes public information.
Anti-Retaliation Protections
As of December 1, 2016, employers are required to inform employees of their rights when it comes to reporting work-related injuries and illnesses. It must be inherently clear to all employees that they have a right to report injuries or illnesses without retaliation. Furthermore, the procedure for doing so must be reasonable and must not deter or discourage employees from reporting. It also incorporates the existing statutory prohibition on retaliating against employees for reporting work-related injuries or illnesses.
How to be compliant:
If you have not already, you should distribute copies of the OSHA Workplace Poster throughout your facilities.
While many people have mixed feelings about both policies, they are already effective. We would love to hear your opinions, share this article and let us know what you think by tweeting @Sospesinc
For more information on either policies including who specifically they apply to, follow the links below:
By Jonathan Monnette
