Colorado OSHA : What you need to know

• Rules. Colorado is not a "state-plan" state; that is, it does not have a federally approved occupational safety and health program. Consequently, the federal OSH Act governs workplace safety and health in the private sector (private businesses, commercial establishments, and nonprofit organizations). For information on the federal requirements, see the national sections HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD, SAFETY DATA SHEET, and OSHA.

There are no laws or regulations that govern workplace safety and health in the public sector (state and local offices and operations, school systems, commissions, etc.) in Colorado. Federal facilities are covered under federal agency safety and health rules.

• Administration and enforcement. OSHA's Region 8 office administers and enforces occupational safety and health regulations in the private sector.

Premium dividends may be earned by employers qualifying for certification by the Workers' Compensation Cost Containment Board (Board). To qualify, employers must have had a fully functioning, formal program of risk assessment and loss prevention for at least 1 year, including hazard awareness, employee training, safety manuals, claims processing procedures, and other recognized cost-saving measures.

Colorado State University's Department of Environmental Health (DEH) provides free safety and health program assistance to employers, especially those in smaller businesses (fewer than 250 employees per facility and 500 worldwide). The service is funded primarily through federal OSHA, with some assistance from state funds. DEH staff can help you identify workplace safety and health ...