2016 will be a busy year for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as it looks to finalize certain rule makings and guidance documents. Here are the top five changes to watch for:
1. OSHA penalties are going up. Under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, Section 701, ?Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015,? OSHA will be required to issue a one-time catch up adjustment in 2016.
2. Silica rule is expected in February 2016. OSHA indicated that the final rule for the Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica will be published in February 2016.
3. Recordkeeping and disincentive policies final rule is expected in March 2016. The regulations are anticipated to add new electronic reporting obligations to most employers that are required to keep OSHA 300 Logs.
4. Updated safety and health program management guidelines will be issued. These guidelines have been updated to reflect modern technology and practices.
5. Look for the following regulatory actions that could impact the construction industry:
- Preventing Back-Over Injuries and Fatalities.
- Chemical Management and Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).
- Updating OSHA Standards Based on National Consensus Standards Eye and Face Protection.
- Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol: Amendment to the Final Rule on Respiratory Protection -Amendments to the Cranes and Derricks in Construction Standard.
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