Identical language in both bodies of Congress is necessary for a House-Senate Conference. While current law permits OSHA to inspect post offices, it cannot impose penalties for violations. Lack of any enforcement tool renders compliance requirements ineffective at best. Despite all the wonderful success that the Postal Service has had over the last few years, its safety and health record remains the most egregious in the federal government. Sen. Kennedy Supported Bill Kennedy also supported this bill on the Senate floor.
Postal employees suffer one of the highest injury rates in the federal government.
Kennedy added that S 2112 permits OSHA to issue citations for safety hazards, and back them up with penalties. This credible enforcement threat will encourage the Postal Service to comply with the law, save taxpayer dollars currently spent on workers' compensation costs, and reduce the extraordinarily high rate of injuries among postal employees. APWU Hails 'Milestone Achievement' APWU regards this OSHA enforcement act as a milestone achievement. The House of Representatives defeated the Fast Track authority bill on September 25, 1998. The labor movement opposes any trade agreements that lack provisions and enforcement mechanisms that address worker rights, labor standards and environmental protections.