ASSP, NSC Congratulate Keeling on OSHA Confirmation
On October 3, the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) said that it "enthusiastically welcomes the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of David Keeling as the 14th Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health."
The group noted that Keeling, an ASSP member since 2002, brings nearly four decades of experience to OSHA.
“OSHA’s leadership is more important than ever, given today’s workplace safety challenges and the continuing evolution of how work is performed,” said ASSP President Linda Tapp, in a statement. “We know David is a strong proponent of protecting workers, and his extensive knowledge and skills as a safety professional will certainly help the agency. We look forward to working with him and his staff on many substantial issues.”
The agency said it's encouraged by Keeling’s "commitment and vision to modernize regulatory oversight and rulemaking through the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, predictive analytics and informed design, which can significantly reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities.
“It’s vital to understand the risks workers confront every day, knowing these hazards often have life-and-death implications,” Tapp said. “Workplace fatalities are preventable.”
Keeling’s plan to enhance OSHA’s use of industrial consensus standards is a critical step in bolstering worker safety across all industries. He has publicly acknowledged the rigorous review and continuous improvement inherent in these standards, which focus on industry best practices and are vital for driving business improvement, injury prevention, and sustainability.
ASSP said it's looking forward to collaborating closely with Keeling and his team
“Safety, health and well-being are inherent rights of every worker,” Tapp said.
National Safety Council
The National Safety Council issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Senate confirmation of David Keeling.
“The National Safety Council congratulates David Keeling on his successful confirmation as the next head of OSHA,” said Lorraine Martin, CEO of NSC. “David is a proven safety leader who will help continue the agency’s long legacy of protecting the health and wellbeing of our workers. NSC looks forward to partnering with OSHA to continue to exert strong leadership on issues impacting workplace safety so that every American makes it home at the end of their shift.”
There were 4,543 preventable fatalities in occupational settings in the United States in 2023. The biggest killer at work is driving on, or working near, a roadway. In 2023, 37% of deaths on the job were transportation related.
Occupational fatalities and serious incidents cost the United States hundreds of billions of dollars each year in wage and productivity losses, medically consulted injuries, and administrative expenses. Furthermore, these tragic events forever change the lives of families and coworkers across the nation.