Safety First-Profits Follow – 5/27/25
Safety E-Quick Tip
OWYN Safety Management Platform
Safety First—Profits Follow
You’re in Control
At OWYN Safety, we believe that you should be in control of your workplace safety. This is not just a lecture; it’s an opportunity for you to make informed decisions about your safety strategy. Remember, protecting your employees is protecting your most valuable asset.
Understanding Your Responsibilities
Many business leaders struggle to understand their responsibilities when it comes to workplace safety, which can lead to costly citations and fines. Years ago, I represented clients who received OSHA citations and were confused about why they were being cited for safety issues they believed were not their responsibility. After reviewing their cases, I discovered that confusion around workplace safety was often the root cause of these citations.
The General Duty Clause
As I continued to represent clients, I needed to find out what they needed to do to prevent citations. I dug into OSHA regulations and found my first answer in the General Duty Clause. Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act states: “Each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.”
Your Obligations
OSHA uses this clause as a catch-all for violations when they can’t find a specific standard that covers a hazard. This helps us understand what an employer’s obligation is in one simple sentence: you must ensure a safe workplace.
Recognizing Hazards
Many business leaders are surprised to receive citations for hazards they didn’t create. For example, in a multi-story renovation, if a demolition crew removes handrails without installing temporary ones, every contractor using those stairways can be cited for missing handrails. When I receive calls from employers saying, “I didn’t create that hazard; how can I be cited for it?” I remind them that the General Duty Clause makes it clear: each employer must furnish a workplace free from recognized hazards.
Understanding your responsibilities and taking control of safety can transform your workplace. It’s not just about paperwork; it’s about creating a culture of safety that protects your employees and your bottom line.
Employee QuickTip
Always use the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for your tasks to minimize the risk of injury and ensure your safety on the job.
Employer/Management QuickTip
Regularly review and update your safety policies and procedures to ensure compliance and foster a culture of safety within your organization.
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Stay Safe – You’ve Got This!
Your OWYN Safety Solution Team
OWYNsafety.com – Your All-In-One Safety Solution
