COMPLIANCE SECTION

OSHA Proposes New
Ergonomics Standard

The proposed ergonomics standard is intended to benefit employees and employers in General Industry. Employees will benefit through fewer work-related injuries and illnesses as a result of improved work conditions, while employers will benefit through reduced workers’ compensation costs and increased productivity.

INTRODUCTION
OSHA is currently in the process of developing subpart Y as an amendment to the General Industry Standard
29 CFR 1910. The proposed amendment is designed to reduce the incidence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) through the implementation of Ergonomics Programs. The Ergonomics Standard will apply to employers in General Industry whose employees, as a core part of their job, are subjected to physical work activities and conditions that place them at a high risk for MSDs.

BACKGROUND
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has identified MSDs as the largest job related injury and illness problem in the United States today. These disorders account for one-third of all reported occupational injuries and illnesses and cost employers $15 - $20 billion in workers’ compensation costs each year. Many employers are already voluntarily implementing ergonomics programs in order to prevent the costs and problems associated with MSDs. OSHA has proposed the new standard as a means of protecting high-risk employees and their employers who currently do not have ergonomics programs. The proposed standard is also intended to ensure that the ergonomics programs already in place are sufficient enough to provide employees the necessary protection.

REQUIREMENTS
A complete ergonomics program, as stated in 29 CFR 1910.905, will include, but is not limited to, the following program elements:

• Management Leadership and Employee Participation
• Hazard Information and Reporting
• Job Hazard Analysis and Control
• Training
• “MSD” Management
• Program Evaluation
  

SUMMARY
If you would like more information on the proposed ergonomics standard, or you desire assistance with getting a head start in implementing an ergonomics program, please contact Dan Woody or Jerry Beaudion by phone at (513) 489-2255 or toll free at (800) 229-1443 or by e-mail at dtw@paynefirm.com or ghb@paynefirm.com.