HR Health & Safety FAQ

Questions:

• How does the “play or pay” provision of the health care reform law work?
• What does OSHA require employers to do?
• Is every employee injury covered by workers’ compensation?
• Should our company prohibit employees from using their cell phones for business while driving?
• What are repetitive stress disorders?
• Is alcoholism a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act?
• Are there inexpensive ways to encourage healthy habits in our employees?
• What are the benefits of adopting a workplace wellness program?

Answer:

What does OSHA require employers to do?

It depends on how large your company is, your industry, and your company’s history of accidents, inspections, and so forth. Generally speaking, however, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requires employers to provide a workplace free of known hazards, to train employees on proper use of equipment and materials, and to provide safety equipment, among other things. OSHA also requires employers to post notices, submit to inspections, and keep records of workplace illnesses or injuries. For more information, see Nolo’s articles OSHA: Complying With Workplace Health and Safety Laws and OSHA Compliance: Recordkeeping, Reporting, Posting, and Inspection Rules.