Property Management Companies and OSHA Requirements

Probably one of the most common human expressions we use is “I didn’t think it could happen to me”. Unforeseen occurrences can happen at any time.  At work even the most minor of situations can turn into a serious injury.  That is why it is OSHA required to have regular monthly apartment training safety talks on various topics in order to keep the reminders fresh on our team’s mind, with the hope that this training will help them think before they do.

Accurate record keeping is also an OSHA must for property management companies.  Leasing apartments may not be as dangerous as building a high rise, but perhaps this faux appearance is what can get us in the most trouble.  If an incident does arise, what documentation should your records have?  OSHA requires the following:

Each employer is required by OSHA to keep records of fatalities, injuries, illnesses, and must record each fatality, injury and illness that:
(1) Is work-related; and
(2) Is a new case; and
(3) Meets one or more of the general recording criteria of Section 1904.7 or the application to specific cases of Section 1904.8 through Section 1904.11 which can be found at www.osha.gov

What are some of the more common office situations where an injury can occur?  Below are some bulleted items.

Falling down is probably the most common accident.  Whether it’s tripping over wires, using a chair instead of a ladder, traversing in a dark office or apartment and many other situations can arise.

Office furniture and equipment can also pose hazards.  Getting fingers pinched or stuck.  Staplers falling off the top of file cabinets onto our head or feet happen all the time.  Have you ever burned yourself on the coffee pot?

Lifting items the wrong way can quickly put you in traction for a few weeks.

Incorrect posture can cause back, wrist, and neck problems.

Can you add to this list? What are some common hazards that you have come across in your office?  In a future post we will discuss safety from a maintenance teams point of view.

The Training Factor has already released the first set of monthly safety talks as a required course for your curriculum. Contact us today and make your property management company OSHA compliant!