Since OSHA's proposed ergonomics standard hearings began in Washington earlier this month, several organizations and corporations have testified against a regulation.
UAW is one of the groups who believes American workers need an ergonomics rule in the workplace and it plans on making its position known at the OSHA hearings.
On Thursday, UAW is scheduled to testify at the hearings. UAW President Stephen P. Yokich said that members of the union will present testimony based on their real life experiences.
"This much-needed ergonomics standard has already been delayed far too long by unfounded self-interested opposition on the part of employers," said Yokich. "The science on this subject couldn't be more clear, and the need couldn't be more pressing -- 600,000 workers each year are hurt due to faulty ergonomics, costing U.S. companies billion in medical costs and lost productivity."
Yokich pointed out that in the auto and auto parts industries alone, a 25 reduction in injuries since 1994 has been achieved. He attributes that number to the fact that UAW has worked with employers to implement effective ergonomics programs.
"Unfortunately, many employers -- especially non-union employers -- still refuse to take action, and others need to do more. That's why we need a strong, comprehensive national standard," said Yokich. "That's what we will be advocating during these OSHA hearings in Washington, Chicago and Portland."