The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations are divided into different "Parts" based on the industry type.29 CFR 1910contains theGeneral Industry Standards, which are the primary rules governing the safety of the majority of disaster workers, including those in healthcare, manufacturing, and general emergency response. While other parts may apply—such as 29 CFR 1926 for construction workers involved in debris removal or rebuilding—1910 is the "foundation" for occupational safety in the United States.
Within 29 CFR 1910, several specific subparts are critical for disaster professionals:
1910.120 (HAZWOPER):Governs the safety of workers responding to hazardous substance releases.
1910.134 (Respiratory Protection):Mandates fit testing and medical evaluations for workers using respirators.10
1910.38 (Emergency Action Plans):Requires employers to have written plans for evacuation and fire safety.11
1910.1030 (Bloodborne Pathogens):Protects responders from exposure to infectious materials.
Option A (1904) refers specifically to theRecording and Reporting of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, and Option C (1926) refers toConstruction. For theCEDPcandidate, 1910 is the "bible" of workplace safety. OSHA’s "General Duty Clause" (Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act) also mandates that even if a specific disaster-related hazard isn't mentioned in a standard, the employer must still provide a place of employment that is free from recognized hazards. During a disaster, OSHA often transitions to a "Technical Assistance" role, helping incident commanders identify risks to their personnel, but the underlying legal requirement to follow the 1910 standards remains in effect to ensure that the responders do not become victims themselves.
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