Salem, OR — Fire districts in Oregon can now enroll in a one-year voluntary Challenge program aimed at improving workplace safety and health.
The free program, which is open to all employers in the state, provides an opportunity to work closely with Oregon OSHA consultation services.
“Fire districts can be particularly well-suited for the multiple safety and health consultations available in the Challenge program,” states a press release from the agency, which operates as a State Plan program under federal OSHA. “Oregon OSHA has several consultants with background and experience in fire service. These consultants understand fire district work and culture and will provide recommendations that best suit those districts.”
The consultants can assist with program development and address concerns with hazard communication, respiratory protection and bloodborne pathogens. Areas identified for improvement in fire districts already enrolled in the program include hazards related to cleaning products, unprotected storage areas, tire management, annual fire apparatus maintenance, eyewash locations, physical capability evaluations, smoke and gas detectors, and exit signs and routes.
Oregon OSHA says the consultations have three key benefits:
- Identify and eliminate hazards that cause workplace injuries and illnesses
- Learn self-reliance in managing a safety and health program
- Receive a one-year deferral from most enforcement inspections
The program’s evaluations are confidential and kept separate from the agency’s enforcement section.
