Contractor License Florida: The Evolution of Workplace Safety

If you’ve ever worked in or walked by or in a construction site (or any kind), you’ve probably noticed how much of a safety hazard they are. Heavy machinery. Sharp tools. Holes in the ground. Falling objects. Whatever the hazard, there’s many ways to hurt oneself. Thankfully, over the years, our laws and rules for safety have improved. The purpose of safety laws is to help keep workers safe from injuries.

In 1970, U.S. Congress established The Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Back before the industrialization of the world, workers had to face lots of different dangers and there were no laws about workplace safety. Coal mines were a job place that faced many dangers – no fresh air, no drainage, methane gas, explosions, fire, etc. In 1908, there were 3,242 deaths (out of 680,492  total miners) and in 1948 it went down to 1,000 fatalities (out of 507,33 total miners).

Machines weren’t guarded. Little was regulated. Power sources weren’t properly protected. When it came to safety, it was basically a free for all.

Sadly, workplace safety didn’t start to get better until 1970. Organizations now have a legal obligation to make sure their workers are safe, mentally and physically. There are safety and health codes and laws to follow. Workplaces must go through inspections. If a place doesn’t live up to OSHA’s standards, it could be suspended or shut down or fined. There’s even a law, The Fair Labor Standards Act, that protects people under the age of 18 who work by putting limitations on the jobs and times they can work.

Safety gear, improved technology, artificial intelligence, drones, education, smartwatches, RFID technology in clothing, robotics, and more have helped improved the safety of our workplaces.

Although certain industries are always more dangerous than others, you can rest assured there are enough safety measures in place to protect you.

From tools and equipment to chemicals and wires, there are a lot of hazards in a contractor’s work places, but you will be safe if you follow the safety rules.

If you’re ready to begin a career as a contractor, you will need a license. We can help you get your contractor’s license. As a contractor licensing company, we have helped thousands of contractors across the United States get their contractor license, and we want to help you too. First, you provide us with some basic information on your skills, background, testing, education, and other information. Then, we will fill out all the paperwork, let you know if you are missing anything, finish up the application, and submit it to the Board on your behalf to get you approved.

To get your contractor license, click our Florida contractor’s license page to learn more and get started with us or call 239-777-1028.