Safety is the most important part of any brewery program, specifically the control of hazardous energy such as electrical, hot water or steam in vessels and piping, pressurized gases, various chemicals, and hydraulics. In order to keep your employees safe and follow OSHA guidelines, we suggest learning from these top 6 common brewery violations.
- Permit-required Confined Space Entry
Equipment such as fermenters, silos, mash tuns, and kettles fall within OSHA’s definition of a confined space. Therefore, they should be inspected to see if any spaces are Permit Required Confined Spaces (PRCS). If they identify as PRCSs, employers should post warnings and provide the necessary training for their employees. Employees should also receive an entry permit, signed by an entry supervisor before entering the PRCS.
- General Duty Clause
OSHA’s General Duty Clause states that “employers are to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.” In order to take precaution against violating this cause, employers should train employees on proper lifting techniques, invest in the appropriate tools and equipment and train employees how to use them, and create work schedules that will allow lifting duties to be shared by multiple employees.
- Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals
OSHA has issued the Process Safety Management (PSM) of Highly Hazardous Chemicals standard (29 CFR 1910.119), which contains requirements for the management of hazards associated with processes using highly hazardous chemicals. Businesses are required to not only comply with the PSM standard, but also to maintain proper paperwork regarding the use and handling of any hazardous chemicals. Employers can comply with the PSM standard by conducting a process hazard analysis, developing written procedures for the safe operating and maintenance of refrigeration systems, and install controllers as well as a fixed gas detection device to measure the air quality.
- The Control of hazardous energy (Lockout/Tagout)
One of the most common OSHA citations involves lockout/tagout (LOTO). Employers should develop and enforce a LOTO program to make sure the proper procedures are completed to disable any machinery or equipment and prevent the unexpected startup or release of hazardous energy when employees are performing maintenance. Employees should also be provided with LOTO devices to verify that the energy has been isolated effectively.
- Hazard Communication
OSHA provides hazard communication regulations to help companies properly label chemical hazards and wear the correct PPE. This helps ensure chemical safety by providing employees with information about the chemicals and the hazards associated with them. In order to protect employees from any hazards in the workplace, develop a hazard communication plan, label all chemicals, and train employees on how to handle and monitor chemicals. Employees should also be provided with the necessary PPE such as coveralls, gloves, goggles, and full face mask.
- Powered Industrial Trucks
OSHA’s requirement for forklifts and powered trucks states that “employers should provide training that meets all safety requirements with operating a powered industrial truck.” Safety requirements include the fact trainees may only operate an industrial truck under the supervision of a knowledgeable manager. Training should also include a mis of formal instruction practical training and an evaluation of the trainee’s competence as well as proper steering, how to use the controls and instrumentation, and awareness of workplace conditions.
If you or your employees need training in any of the above areas, feel free to contact us here at Safety Solutions and Supply and let one of our professionals set up a training class for you. If you have any additional concerns, feel free to visit us online, check out our training services, or give us a call here at 866-537-2262.
Safety Solutions & Supply
314 E. Canal St. (State Road 60)
Mulberry, Florida 33860
Phone: 1-866-537-2262 (toll free)
