The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the U.S. federal agency, created under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, that sets and enforces workplace safety and health standards. Many states run their own approved programs with equal or stricter rules.
Parking facilities involve OSHA in two phases. During construction and repair, construction standards apply, covering fall protection, concrete and shoring, scaffolds and cranes. During operations, general industry standards apply to attendants, cashiers, maintenance staff and valets.
Common OSHA issues in parking
- Fall protection. Open edges, ramps and roof decks during construction and maintenance.
- Concrete work. Shoring, post-tensioning and formwork during construction and repair. See post-tensioned concrete.
- Air quality. Carbon monoxide exposure for workers in enclosed garages and booths. See carbon monoxide.
- Struck-by hazards. Attendants and valets working among moving vehicles.
- Electrical. Charging equipment, lighting and maintenance work. See EVSE.
The Parkonomics view
A parking facility is a workplace for the people who build, repair and run it. Designing booths, walkways and maintenance access with their safety in mind costs little and avoids much.
Related terms: Carbon Monoxide, Mechanical Ventilation, Pedestrian Guardrails, Building Code, Attendant Parking