OSHA Meetings on Preventing Back-over Fatalities
Feb 11th 2016
On December 17, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revealed it was holding five informal meetings, on how to prevent injuries and fatalities from vehicle backovers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 79 workers lost their lives in 2011 when backing or mobile machines pinned and crushed them against an object or ran over them while in reverse.
At the end of March, OSHA submitted a Request for Information in the Federal Register on backover dangers in the workplace. Individuals and companies that reviewed the federal agency's petition and responded by providing OSHA with solutions on preventing accidents and deaths from these types of equipment. The meetings that have and will take place is going to offer employers, safety professionals and workers on how the OSHA can address backover risks.
OSHA does have a page on its website about how to reduce backover injuries and fatalities. On it, there are tips such as wearing a safety vest. But, for a more extensive overlook on backover deaths, you should attend these meetings if you have the opportunity to do so. It is sure to shed light on what your company can do to keep all personnel safe while on the job.