The SAFE Act concentrates on consultation. Another provision from last session's bill allowing employee-employer participation groups has also been left to another bill. Labor leaders have argued vigorously against allowing employers and employees to establish safety work groups. Enzi's bill requires OSHA to make consultation more accessible to small businesses. Small businesses and their employees are the backbone of this country's communities.
Substance abuse is a major factor in workplace accidents.
The SAFE Act would allow, but not require employers to establish substance abuse testing programs in accordance with existing federal guidelines. Substance abuse testing has resulted in a tremendous decrease in accidents, according to Enzi. Employees, employers, customers, government administrators, no matter what role we play, workplace safety is an issue none of us can ignore. The act that established OSHA is antiquated and becoming more a loyal servant to the bureaucracy rather than to the worker.