OSHA unveils voluntary guidelines as part of new ergonomics plan. (Washington Alert).

OSHA recently announced that it will develop voluntary guidelines for certain industries to reduce ergonomic-related injuries in the workplace. The announcement, delayed for months, essentially replaces the sweeping ergonomics regulation proposed by the Clinton administration and repealed last year by Congress.

The administration's four-part plan includes:

* Guidelines--OSHA's voluntary guidelines are aimed at certain industries and certain tasks. The focus will be on highly hazardous industries with the first set of guidelines to be issued in six months. It is possible that the foundry industry will be targeted because of its higher than average injury/illness rates.

* Targeted Enforcement--According to OSHA, the agency will not focus its enforcement efforts on employers that have implemented "effective" ergonomics programs or those "who are making good-faith efforts to reduce ergonomics hazards."

* Outreach & Assistance-OSHA plans to offer education and outreach to employers and employee groups. Industry sectors will be encouraged to participate in partnering programs. OSHA plans to offer training grants to help address workplace injuries and will set up an Internet site to promote safety and prevention.

* Research--OSHA plans to develop an advisory panel to study ergonomics and identify areas that need attention.

Proponents of ergonomics regulations have announced that they will focus their efforts in Congress and push for a new ergonomic regulation. They do not support the voluntary guidelines planned by the Bush administration. Legislation is pending in Congress that would require OSHA to issue an ergonomics rule within two years.