John Henshaw, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) administrator, is offering a few more details about the formation of the National Advisory Committee on Ergonomics. The committee is part of OSHA's comprehensive, voluntary approach to reducing ergonomic-related injuries and illnesses in the workplace.
"I expect the committee to be a valuable resource in helping OSHA accelerate the decline of these types of injuries," said Henshaw.
The committee will advise OSHA on the various industry or task-specific guidelines included in the plan; help identify gaps in the existing research on ergonomics and the application of ergonomic principles to the workplace; offer guidance about current and projected research needs and efforts; suggest methods of providing outreach and assistance that will communicate the value of ergonomics to employers and employees; and suggest ways to increase communication among stakeholders on the issue of ergonomics.
"Helping identify gaps in existing research is an important part of the work of this committee," continued Henshaw. "We look forward to working with the research community, including other government agencies such as NIOSH, in filling those gaps and constructing a more complete body of research with which we can all work.
"Working with OSHA and our other partners, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) will continue its commitment to bringing sound science to this process," said NIOSH Acting Director Kathleen M. Rest, Ph.D., MPA.
The committee will consist of 15 members, selected for their expertise or experience with ergonomic issues. OSHA will accept nominations from interested parties for membership on the committee. The committee will report to Henshaw. The details of the nomination procedure are contained in a notice published today in the Federal Register.
edited by Sandy Smith ([email protected])