Walking-Working Surfaces — General

Understanding This Standard

OSHA Standard 1910.0022, titled 'General Requirements,' is a foundational regulation within the Walking-Working Surfaces Subpart (D) for General Industry. This standard mandates that employers ensure all walking-working surfaces are kept in a clean, orderly, and sanitary condition. It's not just about tidiness; it's about preventing slips, trips, and falls, which are among the most common causes of workplace injuries and fatalities.

Key requirements of 1910.0022 include ensuring that all places of employment, passageways, storerooms, and service rooms are kept clean and, so far as possible, free of hazards. This means promptly cleaning up spills, maintaining clear aisles, and ensuring proper disposal of waste. The standard also requires that floors be maintained free of protruding nails, holes, or loose boards. Furthermore, it addresses drainage, stipulating that where wet processes are used, employers must maintain drainage and provide false floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places where practicable, or provide appropriate waterproof footgear.

Common violations of 1910.0022 often involve cluttered work areas, obstructed aisles and passageways, accumulation of debris or waste, and unaddressed spills or wet conditions. For instance, leaving tools or materials in walkways, failing to clean up oil or water spills, or allowing excessive dust and dirt to accumulate are frequent citations. These seemingly minor issues can lead to severe injuries, making this standard a frequent target during OSHA inspections.

Penalties for violating 1910.0022 can range significantly, with an average penalty around $317, but individual citations can reach up to $156,259, especially in cases of repeated or willful violations leading to serious injury or death. The severity of the penalty depends on factors such as the nature of the violation, the employer's history, and the potential for serious harm.

To comply with 1910.0022, employers should implement a robust housekeeping program. This includes regular cleaning schedules, immediate spill cleanup procedures, clearly marked and maintained aisles, proper waste management, and employee training on maintaining a safe work environment. Regular inspections of walking-working surfaces for hazards like holes, loose flooring, or inadequate drainage are also crucial. Proactive maintenance and a culture of cleanliness are essential for preventing violations and, more importantly, protecting workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of surfaces are covered under OSHA 1910.0022?

OSHA 1910.0022 covers all walking-working surfaces in a general industry workplace, including floors, aisles, passageways, storerooms, service rooms, and any other area where employees walk or work. This includes both indoor and outdoor surfaces.

What are the most common violations associated with 1910.0022?

Common violations include cluttered work areas and obstructed aisles, unaddressed spills (liquid, grease, debris), accumulation of waste materials, poorly maintained floors (holes, loose boards), and inadequate drainage in areas with wet processes. Essentially, anything that creates a slip, trip, or fall hazard due to poor housekeeping.

How can employers best ensure compliance with 1910.0022?

Employers can ensure compliance by implementing a comprehensive housekeeping program that includes regular cleaning schedules, immediate spill cleanup protocols, clear designation and maintenance of aisles, proper waste disposal systems, and routine inspections of walking-working surfaces. Employee training on maintaining a clean and safe workspace is also critical.