SLSI issues tips for preparing for OSHA hazmat inspections

The Short Line Safety Institute (SLSI) last week issued safety tips for railroads preparing for hazardous material-handling inspections by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

SLSI's seven key points provide an overview of OSHA’s inspection priorities, as well as tips to prepare for an announced or unannounced inspection. OSHA inspections are based on the following six priorities: imminent danger situations; severe injuries and illnesses; worker complaints; referrals; and targeted and follow-up inspections.

The SLSI suggests that rail companies prepare by adhering to pre-established protocols for internal communication, cooperation and compliance. All employees should be prepared to check the credentials of visiting individuals and notify appropriate leadership of OSHA inspections, SLSI said.

The SLSI also suggests that companies hold pre-inspection and closing conferences. During inspections, employees should take notes, ask questions of the inspector and take photographs as appropriate of potential site issues.

Companies should have safety logs and training records within easy access, in the case of an unannounced OSHA visit. Similarly, the institute suggests that companies are prepared to fully cooperate with OSHA.

The SLSI regularly provides safety tips to short lines on safety culture and hazmat materials.