• Federal OSHA standards can be used as guidelines for states that do not have OSHA-approved programs.safety? image by Robert Kelly from Fotolia.com
  
  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal program under the U.S. Department of Labor that acts to ensure safe and optimal working conditions. OSHA requirements are guidelines for states to develop OSHA-approved workplace safety and health state programs, but in the absence of an approved program, a state can follow the federal standards. Colorado does not have an approved OSHA state plan, thus its employers can follow federal OSHA standards, policies and procedures appropriate for each industry.
  
  

Hazard Communication

• Employers are required to evaluate the hazards of chemicals and to disseminate information on all chemicals and their hazards in the workplace through a hazard communication program. This standard applies to any imported or produced chemical. Employers can disclose this information by labeling containers and using material safety data sheets (MSDS). An MSDS system provides information for workers and emergency personnel about the identity of chemicals at a particular work site and how to handle them in a safe manner. Employers must train employees in handling hazardous chemicals and what to do in case of an event such as a spill. The communication program should include a description of chemicals at the work site, the individuals responsible for implementing aspects of the hazardous communication program, and details of how employees can access the information regarding the hazardous chemicals.
  
  

Fire Safety

• OSHA general standards for fire safety indicate that employers must have a fire prevention plan. This includes details and training of employers about what to do in case of a fire: evacuate or use firefighting equipment. Your fire prevention plan would include a plan for evacuation or training on how to use firefighting equipment. All exit routes should be marked, clear of obstructions and remain unlocked. The fire prevention plan should include information about flammable materials---storage and cleanup, the routes of evacuation, plans for disabled workers, the alert system for employees, which employees will stay behind to shut down equipment, and who will account for employees. Employers must make plans available for employees to review.
  
  

Exit Routes

• At a minimum,a workplace should have two exits, but the total number of exits should be based on the number of employees and the arrangement and structure of the building to facilitate safe passage during the event of an emergency. Exits should be located away from each other and have a self-closing, fire-code approved door. Exit routes should have adequate light, be clearly marked with signs indicating the direction that employees should travel, and not be near a high-hazard area unless shielded. Exit routes are not movable---they are permanent and should lead employees to an open space outside of the building that is large enough to accommodate the worksite employees.