GNYADA February 2017 Newsletter

Top 10 OSHA Violations Affecting Dealerships 12

With fines for OSHA violations having recently increased by as much as 80%, dealerships cannot afford to fall out of compliance. The below list breaks down the top 10 OSHA violations affecting automobile dealerships:

1 Insufficient Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) Employers must have a written HAZCOM plan and inform workers about the safety of any chemicals at the jobsite — everything from cans of WD-40 to drums of motor oil. Workers must know how to respond to incidents of exposure or ingestion, and how to participate in protective measures. Employees at risk of breathing air toxins must be trained in respirator usage. A written program must be developed and updated if workplace conditions affecting air contaminants or ventilation change. 3 Unsafe Abrasive Wheel The rule is for the wheel’s maximum opening to be set at 1/8 ‐ inch. Any adjustments to widen or increase that exposure area is a violation. When operating the wheel, eye protection must be worn. 4 Dangerous Electrical Setups Electrical safety violations include dangling wires, uncased wires, or uncoiled wires strewn in a walking area. Circuit breakers and outlets should be covered, and electrical panels should be kept clear. 5 Unqualified Forklift Operators All operators of forklifts or motorized hand trucks must be over the age of 18 and must be trained and regularly evaluated on that specific truck. Do not overload forklifts with heavier cargo than they are designated to carry. Lift mechanisms must be tested and, when necessary, repaired or upgraded. 2 No Respiratory Protection Program

6 No Emergency Action Plan Dealers must have thorough procedures for reporting emergencies and evacuating if necessary. Violations would include a failure to have such procedures or having incomplete policies that lack details about alarm systems, rescue or medical response processes, scheduled drills, etc. 7 Hidden / Obstructed Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers must be operational, accessible, and must receive monthly maintenance checks, with the latest inspection date noted on the tag. Red-and-white "Fire Extinguisher" signs must be positioned on walls above all units. Employees should be taught how to use an extinguisher. 8 Unventilated Spray Booths If your dealership has a spray booth for painting / coating vehicles, it must include mechanical ventilation that can expel flammable vapors.

9 Violating the “General Duty Clause” This is the employer’s requirement to provide a hazard-free workplace. Inspectors may cite tripping hazards, spill concerns, precariously stacked heavy items, oversupplied electrical areas, or even unclean service centers as violations. Eyewash Stations Eyewash stations must be positioned 33 to 45 inches above floor-level and at least six inches from the wall (or nearest obstruction). A facility’s size determines how many stations it needs, but all should be in well-lit areas and reachable within 10 seconds. They should be tested to assure both outlet heads are operating full-flow. Contact Sue Bieber at 718.746.5900, to ask about GNYADA’s Employee Relations Plan, which can help your dealership comply with these and other safety issues. Poorly Located / Nonfunctional

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • February 2017 7