If you’re employed in Alaska, it’s essential to understand the OSHA regulations that apply to your role—especially since most workers in the state are covered under these guidelines. However, navigating the rules can be confusing, particularly in states like Alaska that operate under their own OSHA-approved state plan.
To help clear things up, we’ll break down how OSHA regulations apply in Alaska, highlight additional state-specific requirements, and provide guidance on training recommended by both OSHA and the state of Alaska.
The Alaska Occupational Safety and Health Division (AKOSH) administers Alaska’s OSHA-approved state plan. This agency is responsible for enforcing workplace safety standards across a broad spectrum of industries, including federal agencies, state-run operations, and certain private sector businesses.
AKOSH plays a vital role in ensuring safe and healthy working conditions by setting and upholding compliance standards unique to Alaska, while also aligning with federal OSHA regulations.
OSHA Standards and Training Requirements in Alaska
Although Alaska operates under its own State Plan, it still follows the Federal OSHA Standards and Regulations—and strongly encourages workers and employers to comply with them. This means that if you’re working in Alaska, your OSHA training will focus on specific areas and criteria relevant both federally and to the state.
Workers in Alaska must adhere to all federal OSHA standards, as well as certain state-specific regulations tailored to the unique industries and conditions found in the region. These include, but are not limited to:
Construction Industry Standards relevant to Alaska, including:
Transmission and distribution of electric power
Handling of gases, vapors, fumes, dust, or mists
Wood framing and steel construction
State-Specific General Industry Standards covering areas such as:
Electrical safety and associated risks
Exposure to hazardous substances and viruses transmitted through blood or other infectious diseases
Protection of sensitive information
Oil and gas drilling, servicing, and production
Forestry, logging, and telecommunications operations
Generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity
Painting and transport, handling, refining of oil and gas products
Asbestos abatement, use of blasting agents, explosives, and individual defense equipment (I.D.s)
Temporary labor camp safety
Restricted work areas and their management
Certain workers in Alaska remain under direct federal OSHA jurisdiction, including those in:
Employment sectors governed strictly by federal regulations
United States Postal Service personnel
Private maritime companies operating near navigable waters
Offshore oil platforms and production facilities
Employers in the Metlakatla Indian Community
Public and private employers within Denali National Park
Native American healthcare facilities managed by government and contractors
Military bases employing both private and public sector workers
Agricultural activities in specific fields
Cabin crew operations ensuring safe and comfortable working conditions during flights
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