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Many businesses are under the false impression that the new OSHA Ergonomics Standard (effective January 16, 2001) will not affect them. Businesses that normally are not under OSHA's rule will need to comply with the Ergonomics rule. This means even banks, offices, retail, restaurants, etc. as well as manufacturing will need to put a program in place.
Although litigation is still pending on this issue, the new president's administration cannot reverse the standard, unless Congress acts to repeal by resolution. Parts of the standard may be reversed, if the courts find reason to do so. The filing deadline for lawsuits was January 12, 2001. Thirty-one petitions have been filed and all are being consolidated under the lead case by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM v. OSHA) filed in November of 2000.
Watching out for management's interests are many organizations, including the National Association of Manufacturers (http://www.nam.org) and the Ergonomics Coalition (http://www.ncergo.org/). These websites are a storehouse of information. You can read the pending cases, fill out a 'what will the standard cost my organization' survey and follow the progress of the issue.
If you have any questions, email educational services or call (414) 423-1330.
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