Ergonomics Rule on the Shelf...For Now
Through a joint resolution passed by Congress, the highly controversial Ergonomics Standard published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration was effectively repealed. Once the repeal was signed by President Bush, compliance with the standard is no longer priority for employers ... at least in the short term.
The Ergonomics Rule sought to reduce the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the workplace, including those caused by repetitive motion activities. While it was certainly well intended, the rule nontheless created controversy as business groups found the standards to be unduly vague and estimated the complicance cost associated with it at $100 billion annually. In addition, groups questioned whether the standard was backed by adequate scientific research to ensure that compliance with the standards would indeed reduce the occurrence of MSDs.
Heeding the complaints, Congress utilized a little-known and never-used law called the Congressional Review Act to repeal the standard. By votes of 223-206 in the House of Representatives and 56-44 in the Senate, Republicans were jointed by a handful of Democrats in denouncing the rule. Once signed by President Bush on March 20, 2001, the controversial rule became null and void.
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Legal News from Black, McCuskey, Souers & Arbaugh, LPA, 1000 United Bank Plaza, 220 Market Avenue S Canton, Ohio 44701 330/456-8341
