The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA®)  is asking its 8,500 members to contact their U.S. Senators and urge them to oppose the passage of H.J.Res.83, which would use the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to permanently overturn OSHA's final rule, which clarifies that an employer is obligated to establish and maintain accurate records of work-related injuries and illnesses throughout a five-year record retention timeframe. This legislation could be voted on in the Senate as early as today.

"Misguided" attempts to remove a burden

"AIHA's greatest resource is our members. When they use their voices, they become powerful leaders in civic engagement," said AIHA President, Dr. Steven Lacey, PhD, CIH, CSP. "The fact that Congress is considering passing H.J.Res.83, once again demonstrates the dangers of attempting to quickly move legislation without considering its full potential impacts, or giving the public and affected professions an opportunity to weigh-in while it is being developed. Instead of being distracted by misguided attempts to remove perceived regulatory burden, Congress should instead be focused on real solutions that improve worker health and safety. AIHA and its members stand ready to help Congress develop and advance such policies," Lacey continued.

Better records = fewer hazards

The organization says that better records benefit both employees and employers by allowing each to become more aware of hazards, recognize patterns, and take corrective actions. “

“In short, accurate records help protect workers, and less-complete records place them at greater risk, according to a statement released by the AIHA. “This data - and by extension, worker health and safety - are being threatened by H.J.Res.83.”