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Understanding the Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction Act

On Behalf of | Feb 15, 2021 | Work Injuries |

In Minnesota, the Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction Act requires certain employers to adopt a comprehensive safety program. Failing to adopt a AWAIR program could result in unsafe working conditions. 

Employees count on their employers to comply with state laws that protect workers. Here are some of the most important characteristics of AWAIR programs that employees should be aware of. 

Applicability

The federal North American Industry Classification System identifies industries in which workers face considerable risk exposure. All employers who operate in an industry on the NAICS list must enact an AWAIR program. 

Preventative safety measures

An AWAIR program must identify both employers’ and individual employees’ responsibilities about implementing and complying with the program’s directives. It must contain guidelines on how to train employees about work-related hazards. In addition, the program needs to address how an employer will enforce safety policies. 

Accident investigation

An AWAIR program should establish protocols about investigating workplace accidents. It should describe who is responsible for an investigation and what type of documentation is necessary. Furthermore, the program must clarify how employers will go about taking corrective action after an accident in order to reduce the risk of a similar accident occurring in the future. 

Employees who work in an occupation that is subject to the AWAIR Act ought to familiarize themselves with their company’s safety program. Reviewing a program lets employees know what their employer is doing to keep them safe. Also, careful review of an AWAIR plan will help employees understand whether they are complying with what the plan requires of them in their individual job roles. 

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