I2P2, confined spaces and walking working surfaces are all items on the regulatory agenda issued by OSHA last month.

The agenda identifies issues that are being considered for or are in the process of rulemaking – although the agency stresses that rules for some of the items on it might not be issued this year, and some might never be issued.

The agenda includes:

• Rulemaking that would require employers to implement Injury and Illness Prevention Programs (I2P2)*
• A request for information on infectious diseases to better assess the extent of the problem and better understand ways to protect healthcare workers from infectious diseases.
• The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) developing a final rule to revise the Agency’s regulation on pattern of violations.

Combustible dust, infectious diseases, I2P2, reinforced concrete in construction and a review of OSHA’s chemical standards are all in the prerule stage.

In the “proposed” category are rules regarding occupational exposure to crystalline silica, beryllium and bloodborne pathogens; improved tracking of workplace injuries and illnesses; a revision of underground construction and demolition standards to make the Cranes and Derricks in Construction Rule applicable to those activities; cranes and derricks in construction: revision to digger derricks’ requirements; and approved state plans for occupational safety and health.

In the final rule stage: Confined Spaces in Construction; Electric Power Transmission and Distribution: Electric Protective Equipment; Walking Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems (Slips, Trips, and Fall Prevention).

Both the Electric Power Transmission and Distribution; Electrical Protective Equipment and the Confined Spaces in Construction rule are expected to be finalized this year, in March and July respectively.

*Click here to read Dave Johnson's analysis of how Hilda S. Solis' departure as Labor Secretary might affect the future of I2P2.