Federal OSHA Proposed Rules
Federal OSHA has announced a proposed rule on emergency response, now available in the Federal Register. The Oregon Fire Service, in collaboration with Oregon OSHA, is preparing a response to this request for public comment. The Special Districts Association of Oregon (SDAO) is honored to support this initiative and will host this webpage to provide updates and resources. Here, you will find engagement tools such as template letters and information to share with your strategic partners.
Public Hearing Details:
- Dates: November 12, 2024 - December 4, 2024
- Time: Starting at 9:30 a.m. EST daily
- Format: Online hearing, with extensions from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST on subsequent weekdays if needed
- Livestream Link: https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking
- NSDC/SDAO Testimony:
Background: Emergency response workers in the U.S. face significant occupational health and safety risks in unpredictable environments. Current OSHA standards for emergency response and preparedness are outdated and incomplete, failing to address the full spectrum of hazards. These standards lag behind advancements in protective equipment and industry practices, conflict with industry consensus standards, and are not aligned with guidelines from other federal agencies like DHS/FEMA. The proposed rule aims to update these standards to ensure comprehensive protection for emergency responders.
About the Proposed Rule: The new rule seeks to replace the existing Fire Brigades standard (29 CFR 1910.156), which has seen minimal updates since its inception in 1980. The proposed Emergency Response rule will expand protections to include not only firefighters but also emergency medical service providers and technical search and rescue workers. OSHA is eager to receive feedback from stakeholders and the public to refine and enhance these protections.
Stay tuned for more updates and resources to help your district engage with this important rulemaking process.