Feeling a little anxious or confused over OSHA's proposed ergonomics standard? You're not alone. Consider the alert on the ergonomics page at OSHA's Web site (www.osha-slc.gov/ergonomics-standard/index.html): "Due to the high demand for this material, users may experience delays or time-outs during peak business hours."
Based on the level of attention the proposed requirements are receiving, most people probably feel the standard is really going to become law. But remember, OSHA's proposed standard is just that, a proposal and not a final rule. And this is a presidential election year, too. Politics being what they are, the odds are very long that the proposal will be finalized this year. In any case, deadlines for full compliance may not be until 2002 or 2003.