OSHA Publishes RFI on Data Collection and Employer Practices

OSHA publishes Request for Information in the Federal Register (Link to the Federal Register Notice) to solicit input on data collection regarding workplace safety and health practices and incident data.

Summary:

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is soliciting public comments concerning the collection of information about the safety and health practices of private sector establishments in agriculture (with 10 or more workers) and non-agriculture industries, as well as public sector establishments in those states with OSHA-approved safety and health programs (State Plan states).

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is undertaking a rulemaking effort directed toward requiring employers to establish injury and illness prevention programs to monitor and more effectively implement practices to mitigate workplace hazards, thereby reducing the incidence of employee injuries and illnesses. OSHA believes that widespread implementation of such programs will substantially improve overall workplace safety and health conditions.

Special Issues for Comment:

OSHA has a particular interest in comments on the following issues:

– Whether the proposed information collection requirements are necessary for the proper performance of the Agency’s functions, including whether the information is useful;

– The accuracy of OSHA’s estimate of the burden (time and costs) of the information collection requirements, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

– The quality, utility, and clarity of the information collected; and

– Ways to minimize the burden on employers who must comply; for example, by using automated or other technological information collection and transmission techniques.