New OSHA ergonomics strategy incorporates small-business comments about new regulations

New OSHA ergonomics strategy incorporates small-business comments about new regulations

The Department of Labor appears to have listened to the concerns of small business in developing its new approach to ergonomics, according to a recent announcement from Thomas M. Sullivan, Chief Counsel for Advocacy for the U.S. Small Business Administra-tion's Office of Advocacy.

"In response to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's recently released ergonomics strategy," Sullivan said, "I commend Secretary Chao and OSHA Assistant Secretary Henshaw for seriously considering the comments and concerns of small business owners in developing this strategy. The last time OSHA dealt with ergonomics they solicited small business comments, but then ignored what small employers had to say.

"We believe that the new approach unveiled today is a step in the right direction toward understanding and addressing the concerns of small business."

He added, "Small business owners made it clear that no one wants to protect employees more than they do. But, prescriptive, one-size-fits-all regulations can sometimes hurt more than help."

Small business concerns were formalized in 1999 through a panel process required by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. One recommendation from the Panel Report was for OSHA to consider voluntary guidelines a key component of the strategy.

"I intend to work closely with OSHA to ensure that the voice of small business continues to play a role in how OSHA treats employers," Sullivan said.

Office of Advocacy research found that the last ergonomic standard would have cost up to 15 times more than OSHA's $3 billion estimate.

Federal government involvement

Created by Congress in 1976, the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration is an independent voice for small business within the federal government. The Chief Counsel for Advocacy, who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, directs the office.

The Chief Counsel advances the views, concerns, and interests of small business before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts, and state policy makers.

Issues are identified through economic research, policy analyses, and small business outreach. The Chief Counsel's efforts are supported by offices in Washington, D.C., and by Regional Advocates.