OSHA is issuing a Request for Information to initiate the fourth phase of its Standards Improvement Project (SIP). The purpose of SIP-IV is to improve and streamline existing OSHA construction standards by removing or revising requirements that are confusing or outdated, or that duplicate, or are inconsistent with, other standards. The agency invites the public, including employers, employees, and employee representatives to submit recommendations for revisions to existing construction standards and the rationale for these recommendations.

SIP-IV will focus primarily on OSHA's construction standards. OSHA began the SIP rulemaking process in 1996 in response to a Presidential memorandum to improve government regulation. The purpose of the regulatory review is to reduce regulatory burden while maintaining or enhancing workers' safety and health. OSHA published the first SIP rule in 1998. Two additional SIP rulemakings were published in 2005 and 2011. OSHA will review public comments submitted to this notice to determine the need for, and the content of, any subsequent SIP-IV rulemaking.

Individuals may submit comments electronically via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Comments may also be submitted by facsimile or mail. See the Federal Register notice for details. Comments must be submitted by Feb. 4, 2013.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.