OSHA emphasis program targets the auto parts supplier industry

Atlanta — Hazards in the auto parts supplier industry “continue to be the source of serious injuries, including amputations, and deaths to employees,” OSHA says.

In response, a new Regional Emphasis Program has been in effect since Feb. 5. It applies to employers within the jurisdiction of five OSHA area offices across three states: Atlanta East; Atlanta West; Birmingham, AL; Mobile, AL; and Jackson, MS. 

According to OSHA, the industry’s most common causes of injury are lockout/tagout, machine guarding and electrical hazards. Citing 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the agency notes that the auto parts supplier industry has a higher injury and illness rate (3.3 per 100 full-time workers) than overall private industry (2.7).

In addition, a review of OSHA data from October 2013 through September shows that, out of 299 industry inspections in Region 4, 216 had some form of noncompliance. Of those, more than 87.5% resulted in serious, repeat and willful violations.

Inspection activity will begin 30 days after outreach and notification letters have been sent “to give employers the opportunity to contact consultation services for an onsite visit.”