New OSHA training emphasizes workers’ rights...

WASHINGTON – “Introduction to OSHA,” a new training component emphasizing workers’ rights, is required content in every OSHA 10- and 30-hour Outreach Training Program class. OSHA developed the information in support of the Secretary of Labor’s goal of strengthening the voice of workers.

This information affects hundreds of thousands of workers who complete Outreach Training Program classes each year, and more than 50,000 authorized OSHA Outreach Trainers. It focuses on the importance of workers’ rights and advises them of their right to

* safe and healthful workplaces
* know about the presence and effects of hazardous chemicals
* review information about injuries and illnesses in their workplaces
* receive training
* request/file for an OSHA inspection and participate in the inspection
* be free from retaliation for exercising their safety and health rights

“For too long workers have avoided making claims of unsafe work conditions out of fear of losing their jobs,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA David Michaels. “We are confident that this new training will embolden workers to speak up when they find work practices that endanger their lives and the lives of their co-workers.”

During the 10- and 30-hour outreach training program classes, OSHA trainers will cover topics on whistle-blower rights and filing a complaint, and will provide samples of a weekly fatality and catastrophe report, material data safety sheet and the OSHA Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. Trainers can obtain test and answer sheets from their authorizing training organization.

The OSHA Outreach Training Program is a voluntary program that seeks to teach workers about their rights and how to identify, reduce, avoid and prevent job-related hazards. The program includes 10- and 30-hour courses in construction, general or maritime industry safety and health hazard recognition and prevention that is taught through a network of OSHA-authorized trainers. Over the past three years, nearly two million students have received training through this program.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to assure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

June 11, 2010
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

EPA offers additional time for the RRP Rule....

In this memorandum from Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator from the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, states:

“…Since the RRP Rule became effective on April 22, 2010, concerns have been raised by the regulated community regarding difficulties experienced in obtaining the rule required from certification and renovation worker training. Acknowledging those concerns and to facilitate the transition to full implementation of the RRP Rule, EPA will offer additional and sufficient time for renovation firms and workers to obtain the necessary training and certifications to comply as follows:

In view of the paramount importance of ensuring that all contractors follow the lead-safe work practices in the RRP rule, EPA will continue to enforce the work practice requirements in the rule which protect children and reduce lead exposure.”

This is big news!