Why does it matter? Which category do I fall under?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States categorizes workplaces into different industry sectors, each with its own set of regulations and standards. "General Industry" and "Construction" are two of these sectors, and they have distinct characteristics and regulatory requirements.
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General Industry:
- Definition: General industry includes a wide range of workplaces and activities that are not covered by the construction or maritime sectors. It encompasses manufacturing, warehousing, utilities, service industries, and more.
- Examples of workplaces: Factories, offices, warehouses, and service establishments fall under the general industry category.
- OSHA Standard: The OSHA standards for general industry are outlined in 29 CFR Part 1910.
- Focus: Regulations for general industry cover a broad range of topics, including hazard communication, machine guarding, respiratory protection, and electrical safety.
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Construction:
- Definition: The construction sector includes activities related to the construction, alteration, and repair of structures. This involves building, renovating, and demolishing structures such as buildings, bridges, and highways.
- Examples of workplaces: Construction sites, including residential, commercial, and civil engineering projects.
- OSHA Standard: The OSHA standards for construction are found in 29 CFR Part 1926.
- Focus: Construction standards address specific hazards common to the construction industry, such as fall protection, scaffolding, excavation safety, and electrical installations.
While both general industry and construction are covered by OSHA regulations, the standards for each sector are tailored to the unique hazards and conditions associated with their respective workplaces. It's important for employers and workers in these industries to be aware of and comply with the specific standards that apply to their work environment.
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