Over the last several months, OSHA has continued – and expanded – its practice of publicizing “Industry/Hazard Alerts” on its web site. These Alerts are designed to notify employers in certain industries of hazards that are of particular concern to the Agency. In part, OSHA is using this technique to ensure industry recognition and knowledge of hazards, which OSHA may attempt to utilize in the context of enforcement proceedings. Employers in the industries targeted must take note of these Alerts and ensure that they are fully compliant with OSHA standards.

The following Industry/Hazard Alerts are listed on OSHA’s web site:

• Incorrectly Refurbished Circuit Breakers
• Student Worker Killed While Filming Football Practice from a Scissor Lift
• Dangers of Engulfment and Suffocation in Grain Bins
• Grain Storage Bins
• Clearing Piping Systems with Natural Gas
• Hair Smoothing Products that Could Release Formaldehyde
• Work Precautions for Handling Hazardous Drugs