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OSHA CARES

OSHA launched its OSHA Cares (Customer Assistance, Resources & Engagements) initiative in March, 2026 designed to help businesses meet federal requirements and build stronger safety and health programs. OSHA Cares is not a formal regulation or program, but a way to describe OSHA’s core purpose: ensuring that employers provide a safe and healthy work environment. It reflects the agency’s focus on preventing injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on the job. According to a U.S. Department of Labor press release published on March 18, 2026, OSHA Cares encourages businesses to seek assistance or guidance to improve safety and health at their work site. The initiative is directed primarily at small and medium sized businesses who face unique safety challenges by increasing access to OSHA experts and compliance assistance specialists, providing education and training materials. Visit this link for more information. https://www.osha.gov/osha-cares

OHIO SAFETY CONGRESS 2026

Janelle M. Matuszak, Attorney and Certified Safety Specialist was among an estimated 9000 attendees at the 2026 Ohio Safety Congress in March, 2026. Ohio Safety Congress is a three day event, hosted by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, dedicated to educating safety professionals in workplace safety, health and risk reduction.

Fall Protection and OSHA: What Employers Need to Know

Falls remain one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries and fatalities. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to prioritize fall protection as a critical area of enforcement. According to OSHA, falls consistently rank among the “Fatal Four” causes of death in the construction industry. OSHA’s fall protection requirements vary depending on the industry:

  • Construction (29 CFR 1926 Subpart M): Fall protection is generally required at heights of 6 feet or more.
  • General Industry (29 CFR 1910): Fall protection is required at 4 feet or more.
  • Scaffolding: Protection is required at 10 feet or more.

OSHA recognizes several methods of fall protection, including:

  • Guardrail Systems: Physical barriers that prevent falls from elevated surfaces.
  • Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS): Includes harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points designed to stop a fall in progress.
  • Safety Net Systems: Installed below work areas to catch falling workers.
  • Covers and Hole Protection: Used to prevent falls through floor openings.
  • Warning Lines, designated areas, control zones (permitted in some situations).

Each system must meet OSHA design and performance criteria, and employers are responsible for ensuring proper installation and use.

Employers have a duty to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards which includes conducting hazard assessments, selecting appropriate fall protection systems, ensuring equipment is properly maintained and inspected, providing comprehensive employee training and enforcing compliance with safety protocols. More information can be found on OSHA’s website. https://www.osha.gov/fall-protection/standards