OSHA Information

A recent news release from the U.S. Department of Labor and its Occupational Safety and Health Administration, celebrating OSHA’s 50th anniversary and observing Workers Memorial Day said the administration is looking to add stronger worker safety and health protections.

In the last 50 years, OSHA regulations have protected workers, but still more than 5,000 workers suffer fatal injuries at work each year, while thousands more or hurt or sickened. With the COVID-19 pandemic, America lost more than 570,000 people, many of whom were essential workers who served a nation in need.

In response, President Joe Biden issued an executive order that directed the Department of Labor to consider if temporary emergency standards were needed to protect workers from COVID-19.

The result is an additional $100 million in funding in the American Rescue Plan of 2021 that will go towards increasing OSHA compliance safety and health officers by 160 new personnel. Another $10 million will go to grants that support organizations that train workers about the dangers of coronavirus and other infectious diseases.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration will also hire dozens of inspectors and specialists to serve critical geographic areas. The agency will then direct more enforcement efforts to targeted safety and health hazards, as well as providing more compliance assistance.

The news release emphasized that the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 states “employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees.”

Trained safety consultants Nain & Associates will assist businesses and organizations in complying with tougher health and safety standards.