• OSHA requires employers to modify safety training for employees with language barriers.construction workers image by Edward White from Fotolia.com
  
  According to an article on EHS Today, “Safety Training for Diverse Workers,” the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) started a campaign in 2002 to help protect non-English speakers at risk for accidents on the job. OSHA estimates that at least 10 million Americans have poor English language skills or speak no English at all. In 1970, OSHA stipulated that U.S. employers have to maintain safe working environments for all employees. Thus, for non-English speakers on the job, it becomes crucial for employers to ensure that OSHA standards have been understood.
  
  

OSHA Training in Employee’s Language

• In April 2010, OSHA distributed a memorandum requiring all employers to offer OSHA training in a language that all employees understand. Targeted primarily at non-English speakers, the new rules require OSHA compliance officers to monitor the effectiveness of on-site training for non-English speakers. According to a 2003 dissertation by Marcelo G. Marin, “Training Construction Workers in Florida," Hispanic construction workers with poor English speaking skills suffer more accidents on the job. In 2002, Hispanics made up 69 percent of all fatalities in the construction industry. One way to ensure this group of non-English speakers receive and understand safety standards is for employers to display signs and posters in Spanish.
  
  

Compliance Officer Requirements

• OSHA compliance officers have to verify that an employer has provided training to non-English workers on job hazards in a language the employee understands. Additionally, compliance officers have to verify that OSHA training standards (e.g., understanding of safety protocols, protective equipment) have been met and that employees thoroughly comprehend workplace duties. If problems arise with OSHA employee training, compliance officers must review the methodology of the employer’s program and identify employee impediment to training such as language and reading comprehension.
  
  

English Language Tutoring

• Employers should conduct assessments on employee language and literacy ability. Afterwards, employers should tailor the OSHA training to meet the employee’s current skill level. To mitigate problems with language barriers, employers can provide on-site English language tutoring. Classes should focus on learning vocabulary relevant to the job and OSHA training standards. The OSHA website has direct links to specific programs that can help employers with non-English speakers.