IMPORTANT FEDERAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS* CONCERNING
EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES AND OPERATIONS.
*(This section is intended to explain in broad terms the concept and effect of the following federal laws and regulations. It is not intended as a legal interpretation of the laws and should not be considered as such).
U.S. Public Law
This Act Seeks:
“...to assure so far as possible every working man and woman in the nation safe and healthful working conditions and to preserve our human resources...”
DUTIES
Sec. 5 (a) Each employer—
(1)shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees;
(2)shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act.
(b)Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules, regulations and orders issued pursuant to this Act which are applicable to his own actions and conduct.
OSHA Regulations
Current OSHA regulations state in part: “At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter, the employer shall instruct every employee in the safe operation and servicing of all equipment with which the employee is, or will be involved.” These will include (but are not limited to) instructions to:
Keep all guards in place when the machine is in operation;
Permit no riders on equipment;
Stop engine, disconnect the power source, and wait for all machine movement to stop before servicing, adjusting, cleaning or unclogging the equipment, except where the machine must be running to be properly serviced or maintained, in which case the employer shall instruct employees as to all steps and procedures which are necessary to safely service or maintain the equipment.
Make sure everyone is clear of machinery before starting the engine, engaging power, or operating the machine.
EMPLOYEE TRACTOR OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS:
1.Securely fasten your seat belt if the tractor has a ROPS.
2.Where possible, avoid operating the tractor near ditches, embankments, and holes.
3.Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes, and on rough, slick, or muddy surfaces.
4.Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.
5.Watch where you are going, especially at row ends, on roads, and around trees.
6.Do not permit others to ride.
7.Operate the tractor smoothly - no jerky turns, starts, or stops.
8.Hitch only to the drawbar and hitch points recom- mended by tractor manufacturers.
9.When tractor is stopped, set brakes securely and use park lock if available.
Child Labor Under 16 Years Old
Some regulations specify that no one under the age of 16 may operate power machinery. It is your responsibility to know what these regulations are in your own area or situation. (Refer to U.S. Dept. of Labor, Employment Standard Administration, Wage & Home Division, Child Labor Bulletin #102.)
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