Federal agencies would have to create programs to identify and fix ergonomics problems in the workplace, under a proposed rule issued Tuesday by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
"Real people are suffering real injuries that can disable their bodies and destroy their lives," said Labor Secretary Alexis Herman, who announced the proposed rule at a press conference Monday. "The good news is that real solutions are available."
Ergonomics is the science of designing work tools that protect the health of workers. OSHA argues that when ergonomics is ignored, workers can develop injuries and disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, herniated discs and lower back pain, which result from repetitive motion, performing work in awkward positions or constant heavy lifting.
The proposed rule establishes guidelines for developing ergonomics programs in the workplace. The rule specifically requires employers to create programs for manufacturing jobs (such as production jobs at Army arsenals) and manual handling jobs (such as patient handling at Veterans Affairs hospitals). In addition, if an employee not in one of those two categories reports an ergonomic problem, then the employer must solve the problem, the rule says.
OSHA can inspect federal workplaces, but it cannot fine agencies for workplace safety violations. OSHA's Office of Federal Agency Programs oversees federal efforts to comply with worker safety laws and regulations.
According to OSHA, ergonomics-related problems account for one-third of all workplace injuries and illnesses.
OSHA is accepting comments on its proposed rule until Feb. 1. Comments may be made electronically on OSHA's Web site.
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