OSHA ergonomics proposal "absurd," "catastrophic," RMA says

WASHINGTON (March 15)—The Occupational Safety and Health Administration´s proposed ergonomics rule for U.S. workplaces is "absurd" in its low estimates of compliance costs and would prove "catastrophic" for the tire industry and for U.S. business in general, according to comments to OSHA from the Rubber Manufacturers Association. "The `symptoms´ the rule purports to regulate are a ubiquitous feature of everyday life and would not be eliminated by even the most sweeping alterations in the American workplace," according to the 57-page statement signed by RMA President Donald B. Shea. OSHA is holding public hearings on the proposal.