Industry News

OSHA's Hazcom Standard Under OMB Review

Washington – OSHA's final rule on aligning its Hazard Communication Standard (1910.1200) with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals is under review by the Office of Management and Budget.

OMB received the final rule Oct. 25, and its review can take as long as 90 days, or possibly longer. OSHA originally intended to publish the final rule in August but, along with several other proposed standards, the rulemaking has been delayed. In July, the agency attributed the hazcom rule's delay to an "extensive review" of the final standard.

The proposed rule (.pdf file) was published more than two years ago. It addresses inconsistencies between national and international laws covering the information provided about hazardous materials through the materials' labeling and safety data sheets.

AIHA Top Public Policy
Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety Issues

Biennial public policy survey indicates issues that present concerns for the industrial hygiene profession in 2011-2012

The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), as a result of its biennial membership survey, lists the top public policy issues of concern to AIHA members and the occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS) profession over the next two years.

The 2011-2012 survey was divided into various categories. While providing results for the highest ranking issues in each category, AIHA has also identified the overall top public policy issues for the association in 2011-2012.

The survey was conducted on-line in October, 2010.

AIHA will review existing white papers and position statements, as well as draft new position statements, to determine the appropriate response to each of the issues.
click here for the full report