The cost of cutting corners: What a toxic fire teaches us about waste management

What is used oil?

The EPA defines used oil as any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used and is contaminated by physical or chemical impurities. Common sources of used oil in industrial operations include:

• Motor oil and lubricants from vehicle maintenance
• Hydraulic fluids used in heavy machinery
• Metalworking fluids and coolants
• Compressor oils used in air compression systems

According to EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 279), used oil is presumed to be managed under the less stringent used oil management standards unless it meets hazardous waste criteria.

Used oil becomes hazardous waste if:

• It is mixed with hazardous waste (e.g., solvents or heavy metals)
• It contains more than 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of total halogens, unless proven otherwise, or
• It is disposed of improperly, leading to environmental contamination.

If used oil is classified as hazardous waste, it must be managed in accordance with the applicable solid and hazardous waste requirements.

EPA requirements for used oil disposal

The EPA requirements for used oil consist of three different aspects, as outlined below.

1. Storage Requirements

Use leak-proof tanks and containers made of durable, non-earthen materials (e.g., steel, plastic, or concrete). Label all used oil containers with the words "Used Oil" to prevent misidentification. Prevent leaks and spills by using secondary containment systems and regularly inspecting tanks. Never mix used oil with hazardous waste unless authorized.

2. Transportation and Disposal

Used oil generators may transport up to 55 gallons of used oil to a registered collection center without an EPA ID number. If contracting a used oil transporter, ensure they have an EPA Identification Number.

Used oil must be:

• Recycled or re-refined into new oil.
• Burned for energy recovery in approved furnaces or boilers.
• Disposed of at an authorized hazardous waste facility if deemed hazardous.

3. Spill Prevention and Cleanup

Facilities storing large amounts of used oil must have a Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan. SPCC plans establish procedures, methods, and equipment requirements to prevent oil from reaching waterways, and to contain discharges of oil.

Any spills must be cleaned up immediately, and absorbent materials must be disposed of properly. Rags and shop towels contaminated with hazardous materials may be classified as hazardous waste.

OSHA regulations for handling used oil

While the EPA focuses on environmental compliance, OSHA (29 CFR Part 1910) regulates worker safety when handling used oil. Key OSHA requirements include:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Workers handling used oil must wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin exposure. Safety goggles or face shields are also important to avoid eye contact.

2. Hazard communication (HazCom) program

Employers must label all used oil containers with appropriate hazard information and train employees on safe handling procedures and emergency response.

3. Fire and Explosion Safety

Always store used oil away from ignition sources to prevent fire hazards. Ensure storage areas are ventilated to avoid vapor buildup.

State-Specific used oil disposal regulations

Many states have stricter used oil regulations than federal laws. For example:

• California classifies used oil as hazardous waste unless it meets specific recycling criteria.
• Texas requires additional storage permits for large generators.
• New York mandates annual reporting on used oil disposal activities.

To ensure compliance, check with your state’s environmental agency for state-specific used oil disposal rules and whether used oil is considered hazardous. Additional permits for transporting or processing used oil may be necessary.

Staying compliant with used oil disposal requirements

Ensuring compliance with EPA, OSHA, and state laws is essential for safety managers and shop supervisors handling used oil. By following proper storage, transportation, and disposal practices, businesses can reduce environmental risks, improve workplace safety, and avoid costly fines.

Key to remember: By staying informed and proactive, your facility can maintain safe, sustainable, and compliant used oil management practices.

What does the standard require?

The OSHA First Aid standard (29 CFR 1910.151) requires trained first aid providers at all workplaces of any size if there is no “infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees.”

In addition to first aid requirements, several OSHA standards also require training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) because sudden cardiac arrest from asphyxiation, electrocution, or exertion may occur. These standards include permit-required confined spaces; logging; diving; and electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution.

First aid trained or first responder?

OSHA requires prompt first aid treatment for injured employees, either by providing for the availability of a trained first aid provider at the worksite, or by ensuring that emergency services are within reasonable proximity of the worksite. Whether the first aid provider is a first responder or is first aid trained is up to you and your risk assessment.

Employees considered first aid trained can provide initial treatment to an injured person until more qualified personnel arrive. First aid trained individuals can triage injuries, control the scene to keep others safe, and call for emergency services when needed. Not all first aid trained employees will feel comfortable performing CPR, using an automated external defibrillator (AED), or splinting a broken bone, however.

First responders, though similar in their role, typically have a higher degree of training than first aid trained individuals. Generally speaking, first responders are those that beat the ambulance to the scene such as firefighters or police officers. These responders can perform rescue services or escalate emergency care as needed, such as performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or controlling severe bleeding.

Who is more vital for handling an emergency at your facility? Both! First aid trained employees have process and facility training that first responders may not. For example, they may be more familiar with chemicals on site or process operations. Therefore, they can navigate facilities to reach injured employees quicker to begin initial treatment. First responders, on the other hand, will have a higher level of training for first aid treatment of more complicated injuries.

What’s considered “near proximity”?

OSHA clarifies in a letter of interpretation (LOI) from March 23, 2007, that, “While the first aid standards do not prescribe a number of minutes, OSHA has long interpreted the term ’near proximity’ to mean that emergency care must be available within no more than 3-4 minutes from the workplace. Medical literature establishes that, for serious injuries such as those involving stopped breathing, cardiac arrest, or uncontrolled bleeding, first aid treatment must be provided within the first few minutes to avoid permanent medical impairment or death. Accordingly, in workplaces where serious accidents such as those involving falls, suffocation, electrocution, or amputation are possible, emergency medical services must be available within 3-4 minutes, if there is no employee on the site who is trained to render first aid.”

Regarding work areas, such as offices, where the possibility of such serious work-related injuries is less likely, a longer response time of up to 15 minutes may be reasonable. OSHA gives employers discretion in determining higher risk areas that may need sooner response times.

Employers choosing to rely on assistance from outside emergency responders as an alternative to providing trained responders must ascertain that emergency medical assistance will be promptly available when an injury occurs.

Training requirements

OSHA doesn’t offer first aid or CPR training, nor certify trainers. Training by a nationally recognized organization, such as the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross is recommended. Successful completion of any first aid training program should include instructor observation of acquired hands-on skills and written performance assessments.

Keys to remember

OSHA 1910.151 requires employers to ensure prompt first aid treatment for injured employees, either by providing for the availability of a trained first aid provider at the worksite, or by ensuring that emergency services are within reasonable proximity of the worksite. Employers should consider the workplace, hazards, workforce, and location when determining whether to have first aid trained employees or first responders for medical aid.

The importance of CPR and early defibrillation

For every minute a patient is in cardiac arrest, their chances of survival decrease dramatically. When a patient doesn’t have a pulse and isn’t breathing, CPR should be performed until an AED is available. It’s important to note that CPR alone does not restart the heart. CPR is an oxygen circulation procedure. AEDs, on the other hand, are meant for lifesaving intervention.

CPR and early defibrillation are vital components of the emergency medical services (EMS) chain of survival that increases the odds of cardiac patient survival. However, according to the American Heart Association (AHA), even the best CPR can’t provide enough circulation of oxygen to the brain and heart for more than a few minutes. In fact, a patient whose brain is deprived of oxygen for 10 minutes or more seldom recovers.

Signs and symptoms of cardiac compromise

Just like a reliable vehicle, the circulatory system is the human body’s blood transportation system, and the heart is the engine. Amazingly, the heart generates its own electrical impulses, pumping in a regular, rhythmic manner. As with any engine, the heart requires a certain amount of pressure to function and doesn’t work well when clogged with grease or debris. The most common causes of sudden cardiac arrest include a heart attack, electrocution, and asphyxiation — all of which could occur in the workplace. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Chest pain accompanied by a crushing or squeezing sensation,
• Pain that radiates to the jaw or arm,
• Irregular pulse and/or abnormal blood pressure,
• Shortness of breath,
• Cool and sweaty skin,
• Nausea and vomiting, and
• Anxiety or feeling of impending doom.

CPR provides the pressure for the body’s “engine” to oxygen circulating, while an AED provides the electrical impulses to keep the engine pumping.

OSHA requirements regarding CPR

OSHA 1910.151 requires first aid treatment be provided in the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace used to treat injured employees. This may include assisting a victim of cardiac arrest using CPR or defibrillation.

OSHA requirements for CPR and defibrillation differ considerably. Standards requiring CPR include:

• 1910.146 Permit-required Confined Spaces
• 1910.266 Appendix B: Logging Operations – First Aid and CPR Training
• 1910.269 Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
• 1910.410 Qualifications of Dive Team and
• 1926.950 Construction Subpart V, Power Transmission and Distribution

OSHA recommends basic adult CPR refresher training and retesting every year, and first aid training at least once every three years. CPR training include facilitated discussion along with ’hands-on’ skills training that uses mannequins and partner practice.

OSHA requirements regarding AEDs — you might need a prescription

Though OSHA recognizes AEDs as important lifesaving technology that plays a role in treating cardiac arrest, the agency doesn’t currently require their use in the workplace. Instead, OSHA wants employers to assess their own requirements for AEDs as part of their first aid response.

AEDs are considered Class III medical devices which means the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has some oversight on their use. Almost all AEDs require the purchaser to obtain a prescription from a physician under FDA regulations. The prescription process is meant as a quality control mechanism to ensure AEDs are properly maintained, that all designated responders are properly trained, and assist employers with establishing an emergency response plan for their workplace AED program.

The AHA requires AED operators to also receive CPR training as an “integral part of providing lifesaving aid to people suffering sudden cardiac arrest.” Though easy to use, each AED is slightly different, so training helps users understand the unique traits and supplies for the individual units at their workplace. Additionally, AED users must be trained to understand the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest, when to activate the EMS system, and how to perform CPR.

AEDs are light, portable, easy to use, and inexpensive. They’re best placed near high-hazard areas such as confined spaces, near electrical energy, or in remote work areas. Response time to reach AEDs should be kept within 3–5-minutes.

Training requirements

Many states require or encourage CPR and AED training from nationally recognized organizations. Any AED training should include CPR training. OSHA doesn’t offer first aid or CPR training, nor certify trainers. Training by a nationally recognized organization, such as AHA, the American Red Cross, or National Safety Council is recommended.

Keys to Remember

While OSHA doesn’t currently require the use of AEDs in the workplace, they do expect employers to assess their own AED requirements as part of their first aid response. AED training is required by most states and should include CPR with a hands-on practical component.

Proposed legislation

Bipartisan legislation has recently been introduced in the House that would require businesses to provide restroom access to truckers who are loading or delivering cargo at their warehouses, manufacturers, distribution centers, retailers, and ports.

Supported by leading organizations in the trucking industry, the Trucker Bathroom Access Act (H.R. 9592) was introduced on Dec. 15, 2022. The bill requires retailers, warehouses, and other establishments with existing restrooms to provide access to drivers who are loading or delivering cargo. Additionally, operators of ports and marine terminals must provide access for drayage and parking while accessing such restrooms.

This amendment to Title 49 would exempt some employers from the bill including filling and service stations, and restaurants 800-square feet or smaller with restrooms intended for employee use only. The bill doesn’t require employers to construct new restrooms but to give truck drivers the same access as employees or customers.

Your restroom availability affects their health

Commercial truckers and delivery drivers are the lifeline of our supply chain of supplies, products, and consumables. Working tirelessly all hours, during holidays and weekends, and throughout the pandemic, they continue to deliver critical food and emergency supplies to companies everywhere. Employers have the privilege of demonstrating gratitude to truckers and delivery drivers with a positive work environment.

The benefits of allowing truckers and delivery drivers the convenience and safety of readily available, sanitary restroom facilities are plenty. They’re able to rest and reset when necessary, which keeps them and others safer on the roads. Equally important, restroom availability prevents drivers from having to search for available facilities elsewhere, allowing them to keep a timely delivery schedule, limit supply chain delays, and ultimately lower costs for employers and customers.

Keys to remember

The proposed Trucker Bathroom Access Act will require retailers, warehouses, and other establishments with existing restrooms to provide access to truckers and delivery drivers who are loading or delivering cargo. Access to restrooms keeps them refreshed and ready to deliver essential supplies to companies across the country.

Video supports investigative report

The 14-minute video, “No Detection: Explosion …,” follows a June 2023 investigation report. When the 56-page report came out, CSB Chairperson Steve Owens said, “Our investigation found that [the company] did not have an effective program in place to assess potential hazards in its propylene process and did not have a mechanical integrity program or written operating procedures.”

The incident was compounded by emergency planning failures, says CSB. Owens argued, “This tragic incident was made even worse due to the lack of emergency response training for employees at the facility.”

Deadly incident

CSB explains that a degraded and poorly crimped rubber welding hose disconnected from its fitting inside a coating booth. That prompted a release of propylene, a flammable vapor.

By the time workers arrived at the facility the early morning of January 24, 2020, an explosive concentration of propylene had formed inside the building. As workers entered and turned on the lights, the vapor ignited, triggering an explosion. It:

• Killed two workers,
• Injured two other workers,
• Fatally injured a nearby resident, and
• Damaged hundreds of structures.

The board’s investigation later found that the company had:

• Disconnected gas detectors from a computer control system. This meant the automatic gas detection shutoff system would not alert operators to a leak. It also would not start up exhaust fans or trigger two shutoff valves to stop the flow of propylene.
• Replaced a copper tubing connection with a rubber welding hose. Rubber hose is not recommended for propylene. Oils in the gas can cause a rubber hose to form cracks and lose pliability.

OSHA citations before/after the incident

OSHA cited the company 12 years earlier for failing to inspect gas system equipment for signs of deterioration or leaks. The 2008 OSHA visit was prompted by another explosion of propylene gas.

Following the later 2020 incident, OSHA issued citations for failing to:

• Provide effective training on chemical hazards,
• Prevent explosive concentrations from accumulating,
• Ensure coating equipment was maintained gas-tight, and
• Ensure the manual shutoff valve at the propylene storage tank was closed at the end of each workday.

Safety issues found by CSB

CSB explains that the shop’s propylene amount was below the threshold for OSHA’s Process Safety Management (PSM) standard at 29 CFR 1910.119 or EPA’s Risk Management Plan (RMP) standard at 40 CFR 68. Still, the CSB investigation identified these safety issues:

• PSM — Had the company had an effective PSM program to identify and control hazards, it could have prevented the incident. Suggested PSM program elements included process safety information, process hazard analysis, management of change, mechanical integrity, and operating procedures.
• Emergency planning — The company’s emergency response plan did not address responding to a propylene gas leak. The company also failed to train its workers to recognize or respond to a propylene gas release. Hence, workers did not evacuate from the area after suspecting a propylene leak nor contact responders for help.

Owens concludes that the deadly incident could have been mitigated if the company had implemented an effective PSM system for the hazards of its coating operation. Even if a leak occurred, Owens believes an emergency response plan could have prevented the tragic loss of life.

OSHA chemical emergency preparedness may include an emergency action plan and/or an emergency response plan.

Lessons for industry

To prevent chemical incidents, CSB urges you to:

• Ensure the safety of workers who handle hazardous chemicals (and protect surrounding communities). This is regardless of whether or not the chemicals meet the threshold under PSM and RMP standards.
• Ensure gas detection, alarm, exhaust, and shutdown systems are adequately designed, maintained, inspected, and tested. The idea is to ensure reliability if your facility handles hazardous chemicals.
• Ensure a written emergency response plan is implemented. Also, ensure that it adequately addresses all actions to be taken in a release. Workers too need to be trained in the plan and participate in periodic drills.

CSB videos are recognized

The latest video comes after the board received a “Silver Play Button” award. The CSB’s video channel boasts 364K subscribers and nearly 100 safety videos. The channel has had over 65M combined views since 2007. What’s more, CSB claims that the chemical industry itself and engineering schools use the videos for chemical safety training.

Key to remember

A new CSB video covers the 2020 massive explosion at a Texas machine shop. The board urges you to implement PSM systems even if not required. CSB also presses you to ensure that workers are trained in emergency response plans.

Poll question

A March 2025 report from J. J. Keller and Associates, Inc., tapped 74 professionals. Respondents did not need to be in the “warehousing and storage industry” (or NAICS 493) to participate.

The poll asked, “Which of the following is your biggest warehouse safety/health challenge?” To frame the question, the poll offered options:

• Ergonomics hazards
• Slips, trips, and falls (STFs)
• Exit routes
• Fire protection
• Materials storage hazards
• Powered industrial trucks (PITs)
• Motor vehicle hazards (not PITs)
• Electrical hazards
• Other
• We don’t have a warehouse

Poll results

Seventeen respondents said that their organizations don’t have a warehouse. That left 57 with a warehouse challenge. The results shook out as follows:

Remarkably, no one selected “Fire protection,” even though the Portable Fire Extinguishers standard ranked sixth in OSHA violations for the warehousing industry last fiscal year (FY).

For “other,” the respondents mentioned personal protective equipment and safety data sheets. Some raised topics associated with ergonomics and PITs. That reveals that these two issues may be greater challenges than indicated.

Boiling it down, two safety/health topics dog over half of the warehouses in the poll — STFs and PITs.

Other data sources

To get perspective, consider Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA data for NAICS 493. For example, according to BLS, for 2021 to 2022, the top “exposures” that led to days away from work were:

1. Overexertion
2. Contact with an object, including struck by
3. Hazardous substances
4. STFs
5. Transportation incidents

BLS fatality statistics for 2023 show these leading exposures:

1. Transportation incidents
2. Violent acts
3. Falls to a lower level
4. Harmful substances
5. Contact incidents

Similarly, BLS explains that five “sources” of injury/illness with days away for 2021 to 2022 dominate the pack:

1. Containers
2. Vehicles
3. Persons
4. Floors, walkways, and ground surfaces
5. Parts and materials

The most-violated OSHA standards for NAICS 493 in FY 2024 were 29 CFR:

1. 1910.178, PITs
2. 1910.37, Exit routes
3. 1910.303, Electrical – General
4. 1910.1200, Hazard communication
5. 1910.305, Electrical wiring

Also, last year, OSHA revealed the top citations under its warehousing National Emphasis Program:

1. PITs
2. Exit routes
3. Electrical hazards

Results are a little surprising

Given uppermost BLS and OSHA warehouse-related data that points at PITs, ergonomics, and motor vehicles, you might not have anticipated STFs to overwhelmingly command the lead. Possible explanations might be that:

• OSHA has a regulation for walking-working surfaces (WWS) but none for ergonomics.
• OSHA has a fall prevention campaign and National Emphasis Program.
• STF events/hazards are more visible than ergonomics injuries/hazards.
• Many STF events may not reach BLS because they’re less than recordable and don’t involve days away.
• BLS data reflects the injury/illness data received from employers. If that data is underreported, it’s flawed.
• OSHA inspectors “might” focus more attention on warehouse PIT, exit route, and electrical violations because those violations rank high every year.

Whatever the explanation, there’s a disconnect between what our respondents’ challenge areas are and what BLS and OSHA see for major causes of injuries/illnesses and violations, respectively. Yet, there’s value in combating the biggest challenges that turned up in our poll.

STFs

OSHA mandates that WWS be inspected regularly. Once you determine an inspection frequency that will keep surfaces safe, stick to it. The agency also calls for WWS inspections when conditions warrant an additional check.

To prevent falling off the dock edge, the dock doors must be closed when not in use, or a guardrail system must be in place. “Dock jumping” is prohibited. If workers need to go down at the dock area, make sure they use the stairs provided.

PITs

Chief compliance issues involving PITs are training and maintenance. Before operating a PIT, your workers must successfully complete training and be evaluated on their operating skills. OSHA also requires PITs to be examined at least daily before being placed into service. In addition, you need to have authorized personnel perform routine checks and preventive maintenance to keep PITs in safe operating condition.

Key to remember

Two safety and health topics, STFs and PITs, bubbled up as the toughest in a recent poll of warehouse operations. The top challenge was unpredicted.

Looking out for distracted drivers

No matter how vigilant or how well trained a commercial driver is, their own behavior isn’t the only thing to worry about. Other drivers on the road may be one of the biggest risks good defensive drivers face. An effective way to counter this risk is to know how to identify a distracted driver.

Distracted drivers may:

• Linger at intersections,
• Make sudden stops,
• Change speed erratically,
• Make sudden moves,
• Tailgate,
• Brake suddenly,
• Drift between lanes, and/or
• Use a cell phone.

Defense against distracted drivers

The best offense is a good defense, right?

The four basic elements of defensive driving that drivers can use against distracted driving are:

1. Good vision,
2. Heightened awareness,
3. Proper speed and space management, and
4. The right attitude.

A defensive driver should keep a constant visual scan, recognize potential hazards, decide on an appropriate response, and carry out the appropriate response. These are all tasks a driver is personally responsible for.

The best way to stay safe is to recognize and react appropriately to distracted drivers. Using the four basic elements of defensive driving will allow drivers to:

1. See the distracted driver,
2. Take note of others’ driving patterns without getting distracted themselves,
3. Slow down and allow enough space between them and the distracted driver, and
4. Focus on their own safety and getting out of the situation.

‘State and local laws’

A violation of 392.2 is a violation of a local or state law, regulation, or ordinance. These must be obeyed due to 392.2, which reads, “Every commercial motor vehicle must be operated in accordance with the laws, ordinances, and regulations of the jurisdiction in which it is being operated.”

The confusion is that there are no paragraphs in 392.2, so there technically should be no letters following that section. However, to inform the driver, carrier, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) what particular state or local law or regulation was involved, FMCSA has developed a system of suffix codes. The letters following “392.2” – the “suffix” — show which state or local law or regulation was involved.

When one of these codes is used, the officer should include a description of the specific violation in the “violation details” area on the actual inspection report. FYI: Summary roadside inspection reports (such as the ones visible in CSA’s SMS) do not show these details.

Not all 392.2 violations are used in CSA

Not all of these state and local law or regulation violations are used by the FMCSA for scoring purposes. The Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) Safety Measurement System (SMS) does not use the 392.2 violations that cannot be tied to crash causation. Here are a couple of examples: 392.2UCR Failure to pay UCR fee and 392.2W Size and weight are not used.

Most common 392.2 violations

Below are the top 10392.2violations written during 2021. All of these violations are safety-related, and therefore used in the CSA SMS for scoring. The BASIC within the SMS the violation is scored in is shown following the violation description.

1. 392.2SLLS2 Speeding 6-10 miles per hour over the speed limit (Unsafe Driving)
2. 392.2C Failure to obey traffic control device (Unsafe Driving)
3. 392.2LV Lane Restriction violation (Unsafe Driving)
4. 392.2SLLS3 Speeding 11-14 miles per hour over the speed limit (Unsafe Driving)
5. 392.2WC Wheel (Mud) flaps missing or defective (Vehicle Maintenance)
6. 392.2SLLS4 Speeding 15 or more miles per hour over the speed limit (Unsafe Driving)
7. 392.2ML Failure to maintain lane (Unsafe Driving)
8. 392.2SLLSWZ Speeding work/construction zone (Unsafe Driving)
9. 392.2PK Unlawfully parking and/or leaving vehicle in the roadway (Unsafe Driving)
10. 392.2FC Following too close (Unsafe Driving)

Key to remember

In general, FMCSA does not write traffic codes. They rely on local and state agencies to do that. When state or local traffic codes are violated, it appears on a roadside inspection report as a violation of 392.2, with a suffix indicating which traffic code was involved.

The basics of logging exemptions

To be able to use this logging exemption in 395.1(e)(1), the driver must:

• Stay within 150 air-miles of the work reporting location for the day (draw a 150 air-mile radius circle around the work reporting location for the day — the driver must stay within this circle),
• Be back to — and released from — the work reporting location for his/her 8- or 10-hour break within 14 hours, and
• Include the starting and ending times for the day and the total hours on duty on the time record for the day.

The company must retain the time record and have it available for inspection for six months.

What if the driver goes too far or works too many hours?

If the driver cannot meet the terms of the exemption (he or she goes too far or works too many hours), the driver must complete a regular driver’s log for the day as soon as the exemption no longer applies.

If the driver has had to complete a log 8 or fewer days out of the last 30 days, the driver can use a paper log for the day. If the driver had to complete a log more than 8 days out of the last 30 days, the driver needs to use an electronic log for the day (unless one of the ELD exemptions applies, such as operating a vehicle older than model year 2000).

30-minute break exemption

When a property-carrying driver is operating under the 150 air-mile exemption, the driver is also exempt from having to take the required 30-minute break (see 395.3(a)(3)(ii)).

If the driver began the day as a 150 air-mile driver and has driven more than 8 consecutive hours without a break, and something unexpected happens and the driver can no longer use the 150 air-mile exemption, the driver must stop and immediately take the 30-minute break as well as start logging. If the driver went outside of the 150 air-mile area before the driver had 8 hours of driving without a break from driving, the driver would be expected to take the break at the appropriate time.

Common myths

Here are some of the common myths and misunderstandings about the 150 air-mile exemption:

• The driver must have the time records in the vehicle. Myth. The driver simply needs to explain to an officer during a roadside inspection that he/she does not have logs due to operating under the 150 air-mile exemption and that the required time records are back at the carrier’s office (just telling the officer, “I don’t have any logs” will lead to a violation, so the driver needs to know to provide the full explanation).
• The driver must log the previous seven days if he/she had been using this exemption and suddenly can’t. Myth. If the driver cannot use the exemption on one particular day, that is the only day the driver must use a regular log (either paper or electronic).
• Passenger-carrying drivers and drivers hauling hazardous materials cannot use this exemption. Myth. There are no restrictions on the use of this exemption, so any commercial driver can use it.
• A driver that crosses state lines cannot use this exemption. Myth. As this exemption appears in the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) regulations, it can be used by interstate drivers.
• Only drivers that operate out of a “company terminal” can use the 150 air-mile exemption. Myth. As long as the driver makes it back to the work reporting location for the day within the appropriate number of hours, the driver can use the exemption.
• Drivers that move from one jobsite to another every few weeks cannot use this exemption. Myth. If a driver that normally uses this exemption switches work reporting locations, the day the driver switches work reporting locations is the only day the driver cannot use the exemption.
• Drivers covered by this exemption are also exempt from the driver qualification (licensing and medical cards), driving, and vehicle inspection requirements. Myth. The only rules the driver is exempt from are the logging requirement in 395.8 and the 30-minute break requirement in 395.3.
• The driver cannot drive more than 150 miles for the day. Myth. The driver can drive as many miles as he/she wants to or needs to, as long as the driver stays within the 150 air-mile radius circle and gets back to the work reporting location within the appropriate number of hours.
• If a 150 air-mile driver gets into a vehicle with an ELD, the driver must use it. Myth. The carrier can have the driver log in and have the driver entered into the system as an “exempt driver,” or the carrier can request that the driver not log into the device and then attach a comment to the unassigned driving time generated by the driver’s movements. The comment would need to explain that the driver using the vehicle was a 150 air-mile driver who submitted a time record. It is up to the carrier to decide which option to use. If stopped for a roadside inspection, the driver will need to be able to explain to the inspector that he/she is an exempt driver using the 150 air-mile exemption, so using the electronic log is not required.

What’s different with the ‘150 air-mile non-CDL property-carrying drivers’

The 150 air-mile exemption at 395.1(e)(2) only applies to drivers that: Operate property-carrying vehicles that do not require a CDL to operate, and Stay within the 150 air-miles of their work reporting location.

If the driver stays within the 150 air-mile radius of the work reporting location, and returns to the work reporting location within 14 hours on 5 of the last 7 days, and 16 hours on 2 of the last seven days, the driver is allowed to use a time record in place of a log.

If the driver does not meet the terms of the exception, the driver will need to complete a log for the day. If the driver had to log more than 8 days out of the last 30 days, the driver will need to use an electronic log for the day. All of the other issues discussed above would apply to these drivers as well.

Managing the use

If you have drivers that use these exemptions, you will need to check time records to make sure they are complying with the appropriate time limits. You will also need to check movement records to verify that the drivers using these exemptions are staying within the mandated area (within 150 air-miles of the work reporting location for the day).

If a driver is over the hours limit, or has gone too far, you need to verify that the submitted a log for the day, either paper or electronic, depending on how many days the driver had to log out of the previous 30 days.

Verifying compliance is important

During an audit, if it is discovered that your drivers are using these exemptions incorrectly, you will be cited for not having drivers’ logs when required. Each day this occurred will be another violation, so the fine could be rather large if you are not managing the use of these exemptions!

Validity of inspections

FMCSA regulations mandate that every CMV undergo a periodic inspection at least once every 12 months. For expiration purposes, the 12-month period begins on the last day of the month after the inspection was completed. We’re often asked where this can be found in the regulations. It’s actually not in the regulations, but appears in the preamble to the final rule found in the Federal Register dated December 7, 1988.

Several states have vehicle inspection programs that meet the federal inspection standards outlined in Appendix A to Part 396. These state inspections can be used in lieu of the federal inspection, ensuring that CMVs comply with safety regulations. However, if a state inspection is used, check with your state regarding expiration. This expiration may be 90 days or 365 days from the date of the inspection, rather than the last day of the month, as with the federal requirement.

Inspections of vehicles registered in Canadian provinces or Mexico will be accepted as equivalent to the federal inspection for the U.S. These inspections must meet Canadian or Mexican standards to qualify.

Required documentation

A carrier must retain a report as proof of this inspection for any vehicle in their control. The report must include:

• The individual performing the inspection,
• The motor carrier operating the equipment,
• The date of the inspection,
• The components inspected and results of the inspection, and
• Certification of the accuracy and completeness of the inspection.

Additionally, the vehicle must carry proof of the most recent inspection, such as a sticker, report, or decal. If the report is used it should be a copy to prevent loss of the original. Decals and stickers on the outside of the vehicle provide simple visual verification of compliance.

Inspector qualifications

Carriers are permitted to perform these inspections on company vehicles. The person doing the inspection must be qualified as outlined in 396.19. The qualifications include:

• Personal knowledge and understanding,
• Training, and
• Experience.

It‘s the responsibility of the motor carrier to retain evidence of the qualifications. The evidence must be kept for the time the inspector is completing the periodic inspections. If the inspector stops doing inspections or leaves the carrier, the evidence must be retained for one additional year.

Retention periods

Motor carriers are required to maintain detailed records of periodic inspections. This report must be retained for 14 months from the date of the inspection. It must be kept where the vehicle is housed or maintained. The report must be available for inspection on request by authorized officials.

If an outside vendor is performing the inspections, the records can be stored with them. In the event of an audit, it would be the carrier's responsibility to obtain the inspection form from the shop. Since the vendor is not being audited, they may not respond as quickly as needed to provide the information. The best practice would be to obtain a copy of the inspection for internal records upon completion of the inspection. This small step could go a long way toward staying compliant.

Key to remember: Keeping your records up to date and compliant will keep you prepared and reduce the risk of missing items during an audit.

Second opinions

If employers doubt the validity of an initial certification, they may require the employee to get a second opinion. If, for example, an employee added a medical condition that the doctor didn’t list or altered the certification details provided by the doctor, that could warrant a second opinion.

Employers should document the reasons they’re questioning an initial certification before asking for a second opinion, which employers must pay for.

Second opinion requests are restricted to situations involving an employee’s or a family member’s serious health condition. Employers may not ask for second opinions when employees take leave for:

• Qualifying military exigencies
• Military caregiver

Employers also may not ask for second or third opinions on a fitness-for-duty certification. Employers use these to ensure employees are physically and mentally able to return to their job tasks.

When employees request leave for the first time in a new 12-month leave year period, employers may request a new initial certification, which resets the option of asking for a second opinion.

Recertifications

Employers may request recertifications now and then, but there are limits. Similar to second opinions, employers may not ask for recertifications when employees take leave for:

• Qualifying military exigencies
• Military caregiver

They also may not ask for a recertification on second and third opinions.

Key to remember: Employers may not ask for second opinions or recertifications in all situations.

FMLA certification basics

Employers aren’t required to use certifications, but if they do, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has five different certification forms to use for various FMLA leave situations.

The forms are as follows:

1. Certification of Health Care Provider for Employee's Serious Health Condition,
2. Certification of Health Care Provider for Family Member's Serious Health Condition,
3. Certification of Qualifying Exigency for Military Family Leave,
4. Certification for Serious Injury or Illness of a Current Servicemember for Military Family Leave, and
5. Certification for Serious Injury or Illness of a Veteran for Military Family Leave.

Let’s focus on the first two, as these are the most common ones HR administrators use.

Who can fill out an FMLA certification?

The FMLA regulations describe the person who has the authority to fill out a certification as a “health care provider.” The good news is, the regulations include a lengthy list of medical professionals who fit this role.

Under the FMLA, a health care provider includes:

• A doctor of medicine or osteopathy,
• A podiatrist,
• A dentist,
• A clinical psychologist,
• An optometrist,
• A chiropractor (limited to manual manipulation of the spine as demonstrated by X-ray),
• A nurse practitioner,
• A nurse midwife,
• A clinical social worker,
• A physician assistant,
• A Christian Science practitioner, and
• Any health care provider from whom the employer or the employer's group health plan's benefits manager will accept a medical certification to substantiate a claim for benefits.

To be qualified to fill out FMLA forms, medical professionals must be authorized to practice in the state and perform within the scope of their practice. This means that the provider must be authorized to diagnose and treat physical or mental health conditions.

What about doctors in a foreign country?

If an employee or an employee's family member is visiting another country, or a family member resides in another country, and a serious health condition develops, the employer must accept a medical certification from a health care provider who practices in that country. This includes second and third opinions.

If a medical certification from a foreign health care provider is not in English, the employee may be required to provide a written translation of the certification.

Key to remember: The FMLA regulations spell out which medical professionals can fill out certification forms.

Why did banks have extra posting requirements?

The extra postings were required because the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) considered banks and other financial institutions to be a government contractor when it obtained federal deposit insurance, acted as an issuing and paying agent for U.S. savings bonds and notes, or was a federal fund depository.

As a federal contractor, a bank was required to display the Know Your Rights and Pay Transparency postings required under EO 11246.

What happens now that EO 11246 has been revoked?

Because EO 11246 has been revoked under the executive order signed in January, banks no longer need to display the postings the law required. However, they still must display the postings required under other federal laws. The Pay Transparency posting is no longer required, but the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) requires employers with 15 or more workers to display the Know Your Rights posting. As a result, banks with 15 or more employees still need to have the Know Your Rights posting on the wall.

In addition, a separate executive order requires banks to display the “Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act” posting.

Banks also need to display required state, local, and federal postings including:

• Employee Rights Under the Fair Labor Standards Act
• Employee Rights: Employee Polygraph Protection Act
• Job Safety and Health: It’s the Law
• Your Rights Under USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act)
• Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (if they have 15 or more employees)

Key to remember: Banks no longer need to display the Pay Transparency posting required under EO 11246, but must display the Know Your Rights Posting if they have 15 or more employees. They must also display other required federal, state, and local postings.

What this means for safety managers

New leadership at OSHA and the Department of Labor often brings shifts in enforcement priorities, regulatory interpretations, and guidance. It’s best for the safety manager to stay informed on who’s making the calls—because their influence can shape everything from inspection trends to policy rollouts.

OSHA’s new top officials

Amanda Wood Laihow has been appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary of OSHA.

Safety pros may recognize her name—she served as a commissioner on the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission during the first Trump Administration. Her background includes labor policy work with the National Association of Manufacturers and legal roles within several government agencies. Laihow’s experience suggests a business-friendly, compliance-through-collaboration approach may be on the horizon.

Michael Asplen joins as OSHA’s Senior Policy Advisor.

He brings a policy-heavy background, having worked closely with Laihow and at the National Association of Manufacturers and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. His influence may shape how OSHA interprets safety regulations and industry feedback, especially as businesses navigate compliance under shifting priorities.

Other key labor appointments

Beyond OSHA, several other appointments are worth watching.

Jonathan Snare returns as Deputy Solicitor of Labor.

With prior experience as Acting Assistant Secretary for OSHA, Snare’s return could signal continuity in legal interpretations and enforcement strategies under OSHA’s umbrella. Elisabeth Messenger will lead the Office of Labor-Management Standards. This is a role that often intersects with workplace policies and union-related matters.

Brian Walsh joins the Office of Disability Employment Policy.

Under this position, the initiatives tied to accessible workplaces and inclusive safety programs could get a fresh look.

Why this matters

Changes in leadership often influence how OSHA conducts inspections, issues citations, and prioritizes industries or hazards. For example, a more employer-centric team might emphasize compliance assistance, voluntary protection programs (VPP), and reduced regulatory burdens.

Expect updates to enforcement bulletins, possible delays (or accelerations) in proposed rules, and potentially new compliance tools aimed at helping businesses meet safety standards without heavy-handed penalties.

What you can do

• Stay informed: Keep checking Compliance Network for more news, new policies, and regulatory updates. You can also bookmark OSHA’s newsroom on www.osha.gov.
• Review your safety program: Align your training, hazard assessments, and documentation with current standards.
• Connect with peers: Reach out to our team through the Expert Help feature if you have questions about pending regulations or other safety and compliance concerns.

J. J. Keller always keeps a close eye on how these appointments shape OSHA’s strategy—and what that means for the frontlines of workplace safety. Stay tuned for updates and actionable tips for staying compliant, efficient, and ahead of the curve.

Key to remember: U.S. Department of Labor announced new senior Trump Administration appointees, which could influence the OSHA regulations and enforcement policies.

The poll results are in

To kick things off, participants were asked, "How would you rate your organization's emergency preparedness?" Most participants rated their organization as good to fair. However, some even rated their organization as poor when it comes to being prepared for the unexpected.

Additionally, the participants were asked about their organization's readiness to continue business operations “after” an emergency. While many participants rated their organization's readiness as good to fair, there is a clear indication that improvements are needed. Nearly 20% of respondents felt their organizations were not sufficiently prepared to handle the challenging outcomes presented by an unexpected emergency. However, on the bright note, nine percent shared that their organizations were excellently prepared for the aftereffects of an emergency.

Emergency preparedness breakout sessions

During the interactive portion of our event, participants were divided into three groups, each focusing on a different stage of emergency preparedness: before, during, and after. Each team dove into discussions about their organizations’ level of preparedness and tackled the following questions:

• Challenges: What hurdles have you faced or are currently grappling with?
• Solutions: What innovative solutions can you brainstorm to overcome these challenges?
• Best Practices: What are the standout strategies your organization uses for emergency preparedness?

The groups provided excellent solutions and best practices for various challenges, focusing on organizational communication and culture, training, and coordinating with external resources for preparation and emergency response activities.

Communication and culture

Communication and culture were key topics in many discussions, both for preparing for emergencies and handling them afterward. One participant emphasized the importance of hazard analysis to understand the risks workers face and prioritizing emergencies.

Likewise, they emphasized work practices like performing job safety assessments, completing workplace safety audits, and developing safety committees help build a stronger safety culture, enhancing worker safety and response during emergencies.

Training

Training was a consistent theme throughout the conference. This included general information, specific equipment training such as fire extinguishers and alarm systems and developing muscle memory through regular fire drills and other practice methods to ensure appropriate responses in emergencies.

One highlight was a best practice shared by a participant: using escape rooms for scenario-based emergency training. They found this method more engaging than traditional training sessions, although they did note that some trainees felt hesitant due to a lack of confidence in successfully navigating the escape room

Overall, the participants indicated that the advantages of this type of training, from the perspective of being prepared to act appropriately in an emergency, outweigh the challenges.

Coordinating with external resources

Seeking help and assistance from other experts and local stakeholders can quickly improve the emergency preparedness of an organization.

One participant suggested building a strong relationship with local response organizations, like fire departments, since they're equally invested in your emergency preparedness. The better they know your organization, the faster and more effectively they can respond to emergencies. Also, these coordination efforts also impact keeping the responders safe.

The group also discussed what information these response organizations would need. Depending on your organization, they might be interested in the locations of hazardous materials, muster points, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems. It was noted that some response organizations have software to quickly access this information during emergencies.

Additionally, identifying and working with other local organizations was mentioned as a benefit in providing mutual aid, support, and assistance as a community working together to ensure the safety and well-being of its families and businesses.

Key to remember: Emergency preparedness at work is vital to protect employees and property. Event participants emphasized planning ahead, effective training, clear communication, and collaborating with community resources to minimize the impact of emergencies on the organization

The significance of LOTO

OSHA estimates that 120 workers are killed and another 50,000 suffer injuries each year from failure to comply with LOTO requirements. During the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment, workers can be seriously injured or killed if hazardous energy is not properly controlled. Regrettably, unexpected startup and the release of stored energy continues to result in preventable injuries such as lacerations, amputations, fractures, burns, and fatalities every year.

However, proper LOTO programs can prevent these unfortunate incidents when workers understand the intent, procedures, and equipment used to control hazardous energy. Going beyond just locks; prevention starts with a thorough understanding of the equipment used for LOTO.

Types of LOTO devices

Some LOTO devices, like locks and tags, are common workplace features. However, some devices may be unfamiliar to workers, thus creating confusion as to how these devices are used. And all too often, confusion can lead to non-compliance. Let’s clear up some confusion on some of these devices!

• Plug locking devices – box or cylinders that wrap around a plug and lock it, accessible only with a key. These are commonly used for cord and plug machines where the only energy source is electrical.
• Valve locking devices – designed to prevent valved from being turned or operated during maintenance or repairs. These come in varying shapes for different types of valves, such as gate, ball, plug, or butterfly valves. Like plug locks, they wrap around the valve and lock, preventing access without a key.
• Cable locking devices – adjustable cables, typically made of steel with plastic coatings, which are used for locking multiple points of a machine that are in close proximity to one another, or for securing large valve handles. The cable loops through lockout points of a machine and back through the cable device so it can be locked until maintenance in complete.
• Circuit breaker locking devices – plastic devices that fit snugly inside circuit breakers to prevent them from being turned on. Once placed in the circuit breaker, a lock is applied to the device until service or maintenance is completed.
• Flange locking devices – adjustable plastic devices with a connecting rod used to cover flange bolts, preventing access to the blind flange on pipelines until service or maintenance work is complete.
• Gas cylinder locking devices – plastic caps of varying sizes used to prevent access to valve handles on cylinders.
• Steering wheel locking devices – covers placed over steering wheels to deter workers from operating the vehicle or equipment. While often used with padlocks, they’re not designed to prevent the operation of a steering wheel, but as a warning that the vehicle is not operational.

This list isn’t all encompassing, but hopefully clarifies some specialized LOTO devices. Regardless of the devices chosen, the main goal must always be to use the LOTO devices that will prevent energization during the entire maintenance and repair processes. Lives depend on it!

Key to remember: Adding an understanding of LOTO devices to employee training is crucial for compliance and worker safety during service and maintenance activities.

OSHA’s announcement on helmets vs. hard hats

OSHA released a Safety and Health Bulletin (SHIB 11-22-2023) on November 22, 2023, detailing the key differences and benefits of using modern safety helmets over traditional hard hats.

And just a few weeks later, in the December 11, 2023 Trade Release, the Agency announced it would now require its inspectors to wear Type II head protection, which is also commonly referred to as safety helmets.

The two main benefits of Type II safety helmets

The November 22, 2023 SHIB discussed two main benefits of choosing modern safety helmets over traditional hard hats -- the construction of materials and the use of chinstraps.

And while OSHA has recognized the benefits of Type II safety helmets, and is actively taking steps to protect its own employees, it’s important to understand that there is not a new requirement for employers to make the switch to safety helmets.

That being said, a growing number of employers have recognized the benefits of added head protection and are choosing to use Type II helmets for their workers. In addition, some clients are starting to contractually require their construction contractors to make the switch as well.

Understanding the different types of head protection

Hard hats will have a Type I or Type II rating on the manufacturer’s sticker. These markings are based on ANSI Z89.1’s impact ratings.

Type I hard hats protect from objects or impacts from the top center area of the hard hat and are often used in work areas with no lateral head impact hazards.

Type II hard hats, on the other hand, offers protection from both top and lateral impacts and objects and is often found on construction job sites or complex general industry settings where workers face multiple head contact exposures.

Hard hats are classified based on their level of voltage protection. See the chart below.

Choosing the right head protection for your employees

Employers should conduct a job hazard analysis and/or a PPE assessment to determine which style hard hat is best for their workers. In general, OSHA recommends the use of Type II safety helmets at the following locations:

1. Construction Sites: For construction sites, especially those with high risks of falling objects and debris, impacts from equipment, or slips, trips, and falls, safety helmets have enhanced impact resistance and additional features that offer superior protection compared to the components and construction of traditional hard hats.

2. Oil and Gas Industry: In these sectors where workers face multiple hazards, including potential exposure to chemicals and severe impacts, safety helmets with additional features can provide comprehensive protection.

3. Working from Heights: For tasks or jobs that involve working from heights, safety helmets offer protection of the entire head and include features that prevent the safety helmet from falling off.

4. Electrical Work: For tasks involving electrical work or proximity to electrical hazards, safety helmets with non-conductive materials (Class G and Class E) provide protection to prevent electrical shocks. However, some traditional hard hats also offer electrical protection.

5. High-Temperature Environments: In high temperatures or where there is exposure to molten materials, safety helmets with advanced heat-resistant properties can provide additional protection to workers.

Key to remember: While there isn’t a new requirement for safety helmets, employers should review their workplace hazards to determine which style of hard hat will best protect their employees.

1. Develop, implement, and enforce an energy control program

A well-documented energy control program is the foundation of lockout/tagout safety. Construction companies should create clear policies and procedures for controlling hazardous energy and ensure strict enforcement. VisitJ. J. Keller Safety Management Suite to access over 125 safety policies pre-written templates, including Lockout/Tagout and Hazardous Energy Control.

2. Use lockout devices for equipment that can be locked out

When machinery can be locked out, a physical lockout device must be used to prevent accidental activation. If the equipment cannot be locked out, additional safety measures must be in place to ensure worker protection.

3. Establish a tagout program for equipment that cannot be locked out

If machinery lacks a lockout option, an effective tagout system should be implemented. Tagout devices must provide the same level of safety as lockout devices, warning employees not to operate the equipment.

4. Document and enforce energy control procedures

Energy control procedures should be written, detailed, and regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective. These procedures must outline the steps required for shutting down, isolating, and securing hazardous energy sources.

5. Use standardized and durable lockout/tagout devices

All lockout/tagout devices must be standardized in appearance, durable, and substantial enough to prevent accidental removal. Only authorized devices should be used to ensure consistency and reliability.

6. Clearly identify lockout/tagout devices by individual users

Each lockout/tagout device must be labeled to identify the employee who applied it. This helps prevent accidental removal and ensures accountability in the lockout/tagout process.

7. Restrict lock removal to the employee who applied it

To maintain safety, only the individual who applied a lockout/tagout device should remove it. If removal by another person is necessary, strict procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of all employees. See our FAQ for more information: Can a lock be cut off if the person who applied it isn’t there to remove it?

8. Conduct annual inspections of energy control procedures

Regular inspections of lockout/tagout practices help identify potential issues and ensure compliance with OSHA standards. Annual audits should confirm that all energy control procedures are followed correctly.

9. Provide mandatory training for all employees

Proper training is crucial for effective lockout/tagout implementation. Employers must ensure that all workers understand their roles, responsibilities, and the risks associated with hazardous energy. Retraining should occur periodically, when new procedures are developed and whenever new hazards arise.

10. Comply with OSHA standards for special situations

Additional lockout/tagout provisions apply in specific scenarios, such as:

• Testing or repositioning machines
• Working with outside contractors
• Group lockout situations
• Shift changes or personnel transitions
• Ensuring compliance with OSHA standards in these situations is essential for maintaining worker safety.

Key to remember: By following these 10 steps, you can create a safer work environment and maintain compliance with OSHA regulations.

What is “chip guarding”?

“Effective chip guarding” means any method or equipment which will prevent a chip or particle (of whatever size) from being blown into the eyes or unbroken skin of the operator or other workers.

Effective chip guarding may be separate from the air nozzle as in the case where screens or barriers are used. The use of protective cone air nozzles are acceptable in general for protection of the operator, but barriers, baffles or screens may be required to protect other workers if they are exposed to flying chips or particles.

What about the psi requirement?

The regulation requires the psi at the nozzle to be less than 30 when using compressed air for cleaning.

However, OSHA has said in interpretive guidance that the use of compressed air for cleaning purposes at pressures at or greater than 30 psi is permissible if the outlet or source is fitted with a relief device or air ports that drop the pressure to less than 30 psi if the flow is dead-ended.

What about cleaning clothing/bodies?

While the regulation does not specifically address the issue, in a letter of interpretation OSHA said that employers should not allow employees to use compressed air for cleaning themselves or their clothing in general industry situations. The eyes and other body parts, such as the respiratory system, may be damaged as the result of inadequate personal protective equipment, lack of chip guards, and/or uncontrolled release of compressed air.

The dangers

There are numerous dangers of improperly using compressed air:

• Embolism: If compressed air enters the bloodstream through a body opening or skin break, it can create an embolism (air bubble) that can be life threatening.
• Eye damage: Particles that are being blown can “blow back” and strike the eyes. The air itself can also cause injury if it is pointed toward the eyes.
• Hearing loss: Some compressed air equipment can be loud enough to damage hearing. Always wear proper PPE.
• Combustible dust: If compressed air is used to blow certain dusts, it can create a suspension in the air that could ignite if there is an ignition source.
• Respiratory: Particles or air can enter the respiratory system, posing deadly hazards.
• Whips: If not properly secured, hoses can whip and cause severe injury.

Workers must be trained that even extremely low pressures, such as 5 or 10 psi, can still cause severe damage if pointed toward the body, particularly the mouth, eyes, ears, or open areas in the skin.

Employers should train employees on the dangers of compressed air, and ensure the equipment is equipped with the necessary safety features and is properly maintained.

Supervisors should watch for improper use, particularly horseplay, and initiate corrective action. In addition, for many applications, a broom or shop vacuum may be just as effective at cleaning, and much safer. Compressed air may seem harmless, but if strict safeguards and practices are not utilized it can be deadly.