Oregon OSHA has identified several safety violations at Salem-Keizer Public Schools following an extensive examination of student-caused injuries. The district and its teachers’ union opted for a voluntary OSHA consultation in order to avoid union members filing multiple formal complaints. While the violations will not result in penalties for the district, Oregon OSHA has required the correction of three serious violations by November 30 and the remaining two by December 15.
The district has responded to the findings by implementing various measures to address the issue. These include enhanced training for new hires, revised safety committee expectations, and an improved injury reporting system. Additionally, the district plans to open a second Behavior Intervention Center in January and a new Children’s Day Education Center next year to cater to high-needs students.
The examination conducted by Oregon OSHA focused on student-caused injuries across the district. Consultants visited several schools and interviewed around 100 employees. The report highlighted consistently high injury rates at the six schools, with bus drivers, instructional aides, teachers, and other staff providing education services beyond their training and experience. The lack of adequately equipped employees was partly attributed to numerous position vacancies.
The president of the teachers’ union, Tyler Scialo-Lakeberg, stated that the report validates the concerns they have raised about workplace safety conditions in the district. Oregon OSHA has recommended several changes, including providing additional space for students with behavior problems, ensuring adequate staff with appropriate education and skills, and improving documentation and reporting of incidents. They have also called for better training for employees working with students, compliance with safety committee operations, and thorough investigations of injuries resulting in lost work time.
The district has been facing a pending lawsuit over student-caused injuries, with more than half of surveyed employees reporting incidents of students attempting to harm them or others. The unions have been trying to address safety concerns during contract negotiations, but the district’s response has been unsatisfactory. The negotiations are currently in mediation.
In conclusion, the safety violations identified by Oregon OSHA at Salem-Keizer Public Schools have prompted the district to take immediate action to improve workplace safety. The district’s response includes training enhancements, revised safety protocols, and the establishment of new centers to cater to high-needs students. The unions are also actively addressing safety concerns through negotiations and potential complaints to OSHA.
