OSHA will reduce workplace fatalities by 15 percent and workplace injuries and illnesses by 20 percent by 2008, according to the agency's new strategic management plan.

Under OSHA's 1997-2002 strategic plan, injuries and illnesses declined in the 100,000 workplaces where there were direct OSHA interventions (such as the consultation program to help small business address its needs); amputations declined by 24 percent and lead exposures by 69 percent - the original goal was a 15 percent reduction in each. Fatalities in construction declined 9.5 percent - just short of the original goal of 11percent; and injuries and illnesses were cut by 47 percent at work sites engaged in cooperative relationships with OSHA.