Heading this list of topics for general industry are the indoor quality standard and a complete revamp of the recordkeeping rules. Whichever path OSHA follows in 2001, it is likely to be a less antagonistic year than the one in 2000 in trying to get a final ergonomics rule passed. Plus, any changes in agency personnel should take some time to settle in, offering us safety people a chance to catch our breaths before facing the next round of regulatory rule changes and additions. I want every worker to go home whole and healthy every day. Only 30 percent of employers nationwide have established safety and health programs.
Amputations are probably of most concern to printers.
Last year, Federal OSHA conducted 156 inspections nationwide in the printing industry. So these are OSHA standards that I know you will want to follow. Other problems that require your attention include hazard communication, noise and exposure to hazardous chemicals in solvents and inks. As you all know, printing is not a high hazard business. Your companies are not likely to appear at the top of OSHA's inspection targeting lists.