The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) issued a statement regarding the recent OSHA proposed ergonomics standard. ASSE officials said the organization looks forward to reviewing the proposed standard and comparing it to the original proposal, ASSE's comments and the ASSE counterproposal.
"The members of ASSE are aware that this is a very significant public policy proposal and it could potentially impact every occupational safety and health professional in the United States," said ASSE President Frank Perry. "This organization has been dedicated to the protection of people, property, and the environment since 1911, and it is important that we remain heavily involved in this issue."
Jack Dobson, ASSE vice president for Professional Affairs pointed out that the ASSE was the only organization to offer a complete counterproposal to OSHA on the original draft standard. "Along with the counterproposal, we believe ASSE submitted perhaps the most extensive technical evaluation of the proposed rule in the country," said Dobson. "I strongly encourage every ASSE member to review the proposed standard and make their views known to public policy makers."
ASSE leaders said that the group's original comments and alternative proposal are still more than relevant to the current ergonomics discussion. "ASSE public policy statements are based on good science and sound technology. We are committed to commenting on occupational safety and health issues with the intent of ensuring that they can decrease the number of injuries, illnesses and fatalities," said Dobson.