600 Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health

Glossary

This glossary includes terms associated with OSHA's Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs.

A

Abrasive Wheel. A wheel made of abrasive particles used for grinding, cutting, or polishing materials such as metal, stone, or concrete.
Accident. An unplanned event that results in injury, illness, or property damage. Accidents can occur in any workplace and may involve slips, trips, falls, or equipment malfunctions.
Accountability. The obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and disclose the results in a transparent manner. In occupational safety, accountability ensures that safety responsibilities are fulfilled.
Accreditation. A formal recognition that an organization or program meets specific standards set by an accrediting body. In occupational safety and health, accreditation ensures that training programs and institutions adhere to high-quality standards.
Allocate. To distribute resources or duties for a specific purpose within an organization.
Analysis and Control. The process of examining hazards and implementing measures to reduce or eliminate risks. This involves identifying potential sources of harm and establishing control strategies to protect workers.
Association of Safety Professionals (ASSP). A professional organization dedicated to supporting the occupational safety and health industry through advocacy, education, standards development, and networking.
Audit. A systematic, independent, and documented process for obtaining evidence and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which audit criteria are fulfilled. Audits are conducted to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to identify areas for improvement.

B

Baseline Survey. An initial survey conducted to establish a reference point for evaluating safety performance and identifying areas for improvement. Baseline surveys provide data that can be used to measure progress over time.
Behavior-Based Safety (BBS). A process that helps employees identify and choose safe behaviors over unsafe ones by observing and providing feedback on safety-related behaviors. BBS aims to improve safety culture and reduce accidents.
Best Practice. A method or technique that has been generally accepted as superior to any alternatives because it produces optimal results. Best practices are often used as benchmarks in occupational safety and health management.
Blame. Assigning responsibility for a fault or wrong. In safety management, the focus is often on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.
Board Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). An organization that certifies individuals in the safety profession, ensuring they meet specific educational, experience, and ethical standards.

C

Cause. A factor or event that leads to an incident or unsafe condition. Understanding causes is crucial for implementing effective safety measures.
Cause and Effect. The relationship between an event (cause) and its outcomes (effect). Analyzing this relationship helps identify the root causes of safety incidents.
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). A national public health institute in the United States that works to protect public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.
Certification. The process by which an individual or organization is recognized as having met specific qualifications or standards. Certification in occupational safety and health demonstrates competency and adherence to industry standards.
Citation. A formal notice issued by OSHA to an employer for violations of safety and health regulations. Citations can result in penalties and require corrective actions.
Cold Stress. The condition that occurs when the body is unable to warm itself, leading to potential health issues such as hypothermia, frostbite, or trench foot.
Combustible. A material that can catch fire and burn, usually referring to substances with a flash point above 100ºF (37.8ºC).
Commitment. The dedication of an organization and its employees to prioritize and continuously improve workplace safety and health. Commitment involves leadership support, resource allocation, and active participation in safety programs.
Communications. The process of sharing information and ensuring understanding between management and employees regarding safety policies, procedures, and practices. Effective communication is critical for maintaining a safe work environment.
Compliance. Adherence to laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications relevant to occupational safety and health. Compliance ensures that organizations follow legal and regulatory requirements to protect workers.
Compliant. Meeting or in accordance with rules, standards, or laws, particularly those related to occupational safety and health.
Compressed Gas Cylinders. Containers used to store gases under high pressure, which pose hazards such as explosion, asphyxiation, and toxicity.
Confidential. Information that is intended to be kept secret and not shared with unauthorized individuals. Confidentiality is crucial in handling sensitive safety and health information.
Construction Industry. The sector of industry concerned with the building of structures, including commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects.
Consultation. The process of seeking and giving professional advice on matters related to occupational safety and health to improve workplace conditions and practices.
Consequence. The outcome or result of a hazard or unsafe condition. Consequences can include injury, illness, property damage, or environmental harm. ⇐
Continuous Improvement. An ongoing effort to improve products, services, or processes through incremental and breakthrough improvements.
Core Value. Fundamental beliefs or guiding principles that dictate behavior and action within an organization.
Contractors. Independent entities hired to perform specific tasks or provide services to a company, often on a temporary or project basis.
Control Measure. An action or equipment designed to eliminate or reduce a hazard. Control measures can include engineering controls, administrative controls, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Customer Satisfaction. A measure of how well a company�s products or services meet or exceed customer expectations.
Customers. Individuals or organizations that purchase goods or services from a business.

D

DART Rate. The Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred rate, which measures the number of workplace injuries and illnesses that result in days away from work, job restrictions, or transfers.
De minimis violation. A violation that has no direct impact on health or safety and typically does not result in a citation or penalty.
Department of Labor (DOL). A U.S. government department responsible for occupational safety, wage and hour standards, unemployment insurance benefits, reemployment services, and some economic statistics.
Documentation. The process of creating, collecting, and maintaining records and documents related to occupational safety and health activities. Proper documentation is essential for compliance and auditing purposes.
Discipline. The enforcement of rules and regulations to ensure compliance with safety standards. Discipline involves corrective actions for non-compliance and reinforces the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

E

Education. The process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially in a formal setting, aimed at improving knowledge and skills related to occupational safety and health.
Elimination Controls. Strategies used to remove a hazard from the workplace entirely. Elimination is considered the most effective method of hazard control.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). A written document required by certain OSHA standards that outlines the actions employees should take to ensure their safety during an emergency.
Emergency Plan. A detailed plan outlining the actions to be taken by personnel during an emergency situation to ensure safety and minimize harm. This plan includes evacuation procedures, emergency contact information, and roles and responsibilities.
Emergency Response Program (ERP). A comprehensive plan that includes the procedures, resources, and responsibilities for responding to various emergency situations.
Employee. An individual who works part-time or full-time under a contract of employment, whether oral or written, express or implied, and has recognized rights and duties.
Employee Involvement. The participation of employees in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of safety programs. Employee involvement is key to creating a strong safety culture.
Employer. A person or organization that employs people to work for wages or a salary. Employers have a legal obligation to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
Energy. A source of potential harm in the workplace, such as electrical, mechanical, thermal, or chemical energy. Controlling hazardous energy is essential for preventing injuries.
Enforcement. The act of compelling observance of or compliance with laws, rules, regulations, and standards related to occupational safety and health.
Ergonomics. The study and design of the workplace environment to fit the needs of the employees. Ergonomics aims to improve productivity and reduce the risk of injuries related to posture, repetitive tasks, and overexertion.
Evaluation. The process of assessing the effectiveness of safety programs, policies, and procedures. Evaluations help identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous safety performance.
Excellence. The quality of being outstanding or extremely good, particularly in implementing and maintaining high standards of occupational safety and health practices.
Exposure. The condition of being subjected to a source of risk. In occupational safety, exposure often refers to being in contact with hazardous chemicals, noise, or other dangerous conditions.

F

Fault. The responsibility for an error or defect. In safety management, identifying fault is less important than understanding the causes and implementing corrective actions.
Fire Suppression. The systems and methods used to extinguish or prevent the spread of fires in buildings, vehicles, and other structures.
First Aid. The immediate care given to an injured or ill person before professional medical treatment is available.
Fixed Ladder. A ladder that is permanently attached to a structure, providing access to different levels.
Fish-bone Diagram. A visual tool used to identify and analyze the root causes of a problem. Also known as an Ishikawa or cause-and-effect diagram.
Flammable. A material that easily catches fire and burns rapidly, usually referring to substances with a flash point below 100�F (37.8�C).

G

General Industry. The sector of industry that includes all industries not categorized under construction, agriculture, or maritime. This includes manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and other service industries.

H

Hazard. A potential source of harm or adverse health effect on a person or persons. Hazards can be physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, or psychosocial.
Hazard Communication. The process of informing employees about the hazards associated with their work environment and the measures to protect themselves. This often includes labeling of hazardous materials, safety data sheets, and training programs.
Hazard Identification. The process of recognizing and documenting hazards in the workplace. This is the first step in a risk assessment and involves determining what could potentially cause harm to employees.
Hazardous Condition. A physical state or circumstance that increases the likelihood of an accident or incident. Hazardous conditions must be identified and controlled to ensure workplace safety.
Healthcare Industry. The sector of industry that provides medical services, manufactures medical equipment or drugs, provides medical insurance, or otherwise facilitates the provision of healthcare to individuals.
Heat Stress. A condition resulting from the body�s inability to cope with high temperatures, which can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Housekeeping. The practice of maintaining a clean, tidy, and organized workplace to enhance safety and efficiency.

I

Incident. An occurrence, condition, or situation arising in the course of work that resulted in or could have resulted in injuries, illnesses, damage to health, or fatalities. Incidents include near misses and dangerous occurrences.
Industry. A particular form or branch of economic or commercial activity. Examples include the construction industry, healthcare industry, and general industry.
Inspection. A formal or official examination to determine whether a workplace complies with occupational safety and health standards. Inspections are often conducted by regulatory bodies or internal safety teams.
Instruction. Detailed information on how something should be done or operated, particularly related to workplace safety procedures and the correct use of equipment.
Interview. A structured conversation conducted to gather information about safety incidents, conditions, or compliance. Interviews are a key part of incident investigations and audits.
Interviewing Techniques. Methods used to gather information from employees and other stakeholders during safety assessments and investigations. Effective interviewing techniques are crucial for obtaining accurate and comprehensive information.

J

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A process that focuses on job tasks to identify hazards before they occur. It involves examining the relationship between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work environment.

N

Non-compliance. Failure to adhere to safety regulations, policies, or procedures. Non-compliance can result in citations, penalties, and increased risk of accidents.

L

Learning. The acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or being taught, particularly in the context of workplace safety and health practices.
Leadership Commitment. The dedication and involvement of senior management in promoting and supporting a culture of safety. Effective leadership commitment is crucial for the successful implementation of safety programs and policies.

M

Machine Guard. A protective barrier that prevents workers from coming into contact with moving parts of machinery, reducing the risk of injury.
Management. The process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling resources, including personnel, finances, and materials, to achieve organizational goals and ensure workplace safety and health. In the context of OSHA, management involves implementing safety programs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a culture of safety within the organization.
Management Leadership. The ability of managers to guide and influence their teams towards achieving organizational goals, often by setting a clear vision and fostering a positive work environment.
Manager. An individual responsible for overseeing and directing the work of others to ensure that organizational goals, including those related to occupational safety and health, are met. Managers play a critical role in enforcing safety policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring that employees receive adequate training and resources to perform their jobs safely.
Manage. To control or direct the operations or activities of an organization, department, or team. In the context of OSHA, to manage involves taking responsibility for identifying workplace hazards, implementing safety measures, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining a safe working environment for all employees.
Maritime Industry. The sector of industry related to the commercial shipping of goods and services via sea routes, including shipbuilding, port operations, and fishing.
Materials. Substances or components used in manufacturing, construction, or other processes to create products or structures.

N

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). An international nonprofit organization that develops and publishes consensus codes and standards intended to minimize the risk and effects of fire by establishing criteria for building, processing, design, service, and installation.
NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health). A U.S. federal agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations for the prevention of work-related injury and illness.

O

Occupational Health. The branch of healthcare and safety that focuses on the physical and mental well-being of employees in the workplace. Occupational health aims to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A federal agency in the United States that ensures safe and healthful working conditions by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.
Output/Outcome. The results or consequences of workplace activities or processes, particularly in terms of safety performance. Outputs and outcomes are used to measure the effectiveness of safety programs.

P

Pareto Chart. A bar graph that represents the frequency or impact of problems or causes in descending order. It helps identify the most significant issues affecting safety performance.
PDCA Cycle. A four-step management method used for continuous improvement, consisting of Plan, Do, Check, and Act.
Penalty. A punishment or fine imposed for non-compliance with safety regulations. Penalties are intended to encourage adherence to safety standards.
Performance. The execution of safety-related tasks and activities, often measured to evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs. High performance in safety management leads to fewer incidents and better overall safety.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. PPE includes items such as gloves, safety glasses, earplugs, hard hats, and respirators.
Policy. A formal statement that defines the organization's principles, intentions, and commitments regarding occupational safety and health. Policies provide a framework for decision-making and action.
Portable Ladder. A ladder that can be easily moved and used in different locations, often used for temporary access to elevated areas.
Powered Industrial Truck. A mobile, power-operated vehicle used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack, or tier materials, commonly referred to as a forklift.
Priority. The level of importance or urgency assigned to tasks, decisions, or actions within a workplace or organization.
Procedure. A detailed set of instructions that describe how to perform a task safely and effectively. Procedures ensure consistency and help workers understand their roles in maintaining a safe workplace.
Process. A series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular end. In occupational safety, processes are designed to minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment.
Product or Service Quality. The degree to which a product or service meets specified standards and satisfies customer needs.
Productivity. The efficiency of production or the amount of output produced relative to the input used.
Profitability. The financial gain a company achieves when revenue exceeds expenses, often measured as net income.
Program. A structured plan of activities designed to achieve specific safety and health objectives. Programs include policies, procedures, training, and evaluation components.
Program Element. A component or aspect of a safety and health program, such as hazard identification, risk assessment, or employee training. Program elements are essential for the overall success of the safety program.

R

Recognition. The acknowledgment and rewarding of safe behavior and practices in the workplace. Recognition programs can motivate employees to adhere to safety protocols and contribute to a positive safety culture.
Recommended Practices. Guidelines or best practices suggested to improve safety, efficiency, and compliance in the workplace.
Recordkeeping. The systematic process of maintaining and organizing records, particularly those related to workplace safety, compliance, and employee health.
Reprimand. A formal expression of disapproval for non-compliance with safety rules or procedures. Reprimands can be verbal or written and are intended to correct unsafe behavior.
Result. The outcome or effect of an action or process. In safety management, results are used to measure the success of safety initiatives and identify areas for improvement.
Risk. The combination of the likelihood of an occurrence of a hazardous event or exposure and the severity of injury or ill health that can be caused by the event or exposure.
Risk Assessment. The process of identifying hazards and evaluating the associated risks within a workplace, followed by the implementation of measures to control those risks. This involves analyzing the probability and consequences of an event occurring.
Root Cause Analysis. A method used to determine the underlying reasons for an incident or accident. Identifying root causes helps in developing effective corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Rule. A specific guideline or regulation that must be followed to maintain safety and health in the workplace. Rules are established to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with safety standards.

S

Safety Analysis Methods. Techniques used to identify, evaluate, and control hazards in the workplace. These methods include Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP).
Safety Committees. Groups of employees and management who meet regularly to discuss and address workplace safety issues. Safety committees play a crucial role in promoting a safe work environment and fostering communication about safety concerns.
Safety Culture. The attitude, beliefs, perceptions, and values that employees share in relation to safety in the workplace. A strong safety culture leads to improved safety performance and fewer accidents.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS). A document that provides information on the properties of hazardous chemicals and how they affect health and safety in the workplace. SDSs include details on the chemical's hazards, handling and storage instructions, and emergency measures.
SHARP (Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program). An OSHA program that recognizes small business employers who have used OSHA's On-Site Consultation Program services and operate exemplary safety and health programs. Acceptance into SHARP is an achievement of status that singles out the workplace among its business peers as a model for worksite safety and health.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA). A law that provides small businesses with tools to understand and comply with federal regulations, including the ability to challenge unfair enforcement actions.
Solids. A state of matter with a definite shape and volume, characterized by closely packed particles.
Staffing Agencies. Organizations that match companies with temporary or permanent workers based on the companies' needs.
Stairways. A series of steps allowing people to move between different levels of a building or structure.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). A set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations safely and efficiently. SOPs ensure consistency and compliance with industry regulations.
State Plan. OSHA-approved occupational safety and health programs operated by individual states, which must be at least as effective as the federal OSHA program.
Subcontractors. Secondary contractors hired by the primary contractor to perform specific tasks as part of a larger project.
Supervisor's Role. The responsibility of supervisors to oversee and manage workers' adherence to safety procedures and protocols. Supervisors play a key role in promoting a safe work environment through leadership, training, and enforcement of safety rules.
Suppliers. Companies or individuals that provide goods or services to another business.
Surface Causes. The immediate, obvious reasons for an incident, such as a slippery floor causing a fall. Surface causes are often symptoms of deeper, root causes.
System. An organized set of principles or procedures according to which something is done. In occupational safety, systems are designed to manage and improve workplace safety and health.
System Input. Resources such as materials, information, and energy that are used in a system to produce desired outputs. Inputs are essential for the functioning of safety processes.
System Output. The results or products generated by a system's processes. In safety management, system outputs include safety performance data, incident reports, and compliance records.
System Process. The series of actions or steps taken to transform inputs into outputs. In safety management, system processes are designed to reduce risks and enhance workplace safety.

T

Temporary Workers. Employees hired on a short-term basis, often through a staffing agency, to fulfill immediate labor needs.
Total Quality Management (TQM). A management approach that seeks to improve quality and performance which will meet or exceed customer expectations. In the context of occupational safety, TQM involves continuous improvement processes that focus on safety performance and employee involvement.
Training. The process of providing employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Training programs often include instruction on hazard recognition, emergency procedures, and the proper use of PPE.

U

Unsafe Condition. A physical state or environment that increases the likelihood of an accident or injury. Unsafe conditions must be identified and mitigated to ensure a safe workplace.
Unsafe Behavior. Actions or activities by workers that increase the risk of accidents or injuries. Addressing unsafe behavior is a key aspect of behavior-based safety programs.

V

Vendors. Businesses or individuals that sell goods or services to other companies, often synonymous with suppliers.
VPP (Voluntary Protection Programs). OSHA's initiative that promotes effective worksite-based safety and health. In the VPP, management, labor, and OSHA establish cooperative relationships at workplaces that have implemented a comprehensive safety and health management system.

W

W. Edwards Deming. An influential statistician and management consultant who pioneered concepts in quality control and continuous improvement, known for his work with the PDCA cycle.
Willful Violation. A violation in which the employer either knowingly failed to comply with a legal requirement or acted with plain indifference to employee safety. Willful violations carry severe penalties.
Whistleblower. An individual who reports unethical or illegal activities within an organization, often protected by laws that prevent retaliation.
Workers' Compensation. A form of insurance providing wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured in the course of employment. Workers' compensation ensures that injured workers receive necessary care and financial support.
Workplace Violence Prevention Program. A set of policies and procedures designed to prevent and address violence in the workplace, including physical assaults, threats, and harassment.