what does osha require for openning eye clinic?

Answer 1

That's true...some states have State OSHA plans, others are under federal guidance. I would ask for a consultation from OSHA, that's when you ask them to assist you in coming into compliance and you're not at risk of being cited. Consultation is separate from enforcement.

For starters, be sure to get an OSHA poster (free at your local OSHA office) and post it in the break room or somewhere obvious to employees. This will be checked during inspections.

At a minimum, if you use hazardous chemicals in the workplace beyond typical consumer use, you need to have a written hazard communication program, a list of hazardous chemicals used in the shop, and an MSDS for each hazardous chemical. You will also need a certification for a hazard assessment of personal protective equipment (that's where you analyze each task and determine if PPE is needed). Employees must be trained on PPE and hazardous chemicals. Document PPE training.

If employee(s) use chemicals that can cause eye injury (not just irritation) you need an eyewash with 15-minute flush capability.

If you have more than 10 employees, you will probably need a safety committee.

You also need to determine if employees are likely to be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and potentially infectious materials (tears don't count in your situation unless there's visible blood). If so, there's quite a list of requirements for that (not equipment but documentation and training) and not enough room for that here.

Best bet - once you're settled in, call your local OSHA office and ask for a consultation. They'll assist you through these steps. The rules for your state will be posted on your OSHA website, your industry would fall under Division 1 and 2.

Answer 2

call and ask them. they have different requirements for each type of business and also for your location.