Exactly that happened when a car wash worker was killed and one injured by a customer as they exited the tunnel. A year later, OSHA established a special program to focus on planned enforcement of hazards inherent to car washes located in certain states.
Prior to this, inspections had been limited to referrals and complaints. Now it is an industry focus. Do you think they will be looking to make an example of some of these businesses? You bet!
If you don’t have a formal safety program, get one. Your insurance provider can help. If you do have one, now is the time for updates. If you are unclear what to look for, there is an OSHA handbook for small businesses with a self-inspection check list available on their website. It is a good place to start.
If you are a multi location operation, you must have a program at every property.
Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance.
OSHA tip: If you are visited, one new area they are looking at is fire extinguisher inspections. Most operators are aware that the tag must show an inspection has been done annually. However, many might not know that the tag also has spaces on the back for monthly internal inspections. OSHA is now looking to levy fines for those businesses that do not have monthly postings!
