Final answer:
The H&S responsibilities of machine operation involve ensuring a safe work environment by reducing risks associated with equipment. Employers must provide training, safety equipment, perform tests, and comply with OSHA standards. Measures aim to minimize injuries and health issues from mechanized labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
General Health and Safety Responsibilities of Machine Operation
The general H&S responsibilities of machine operation encompass several critical aspects in the workplace. It is essential for employers to provide a safe working environment and to implement measures that reduce risks associated with mechanical equipment. This includes providing fall protection, preventing trenching cave-ins, safeguarding against infectious diseases, ensuring the safety of workers in confined spaces, preventing exposure to harmful chemicals, installing guards on dangerous machines, and offering adequate respiratory or safety equipment. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OHSA) mandates employers to inform workers about potential hazards, such as by using training, labels, and alarms, among other methods.
Specifically, employers must:
- Provide safety training in an understandable language and vocabulary.
- Keep accurate records of work-related injuries and illnesses.
- Perform workplace tests like air sampling as dictated by OSHA standards.
- Provide personal protective equipment at no cost.
- Conduct hearing exams or other medical tests as required.
- Display OSHA citations and post injury and illness summary data.
- Notify OSHA in case of workplace fatalities or serious incidents.
- Limit the operation hours for equipment operators to prevent fatigue.