What You Should Know About OSHA's Draft Ergonomics Requirements
In February, OSHA went public with a sneak preview of potential requirements for controlling workplace ergonomic problems. Agency chief Charles Jeffress wants to formally propose an ergonomics standard this fall, and issue final rules sometime next year. That's rose-colored thinking, according to many OSHA-watchers in Washington. Already, a Republican Congressman has introduced a bill that would block OSHA action until more ergonomics studies are completed. Industry groups are up in arms. Even labor union safety officials who want an ergonomics standard are calling for changes. Indeed, Jeffress says specific requirements will undergo numerous and significant revisions before the standard is finalized.
Still, the OSHA chief is determined to push on. He cites "compelling evidence" that early identification of problem jobs, workplace modifications, training, and effective medical treatment can reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders. More than one in every three lost-workday cases relate to these injuries and illnesses.