OSHA  is developing rulemaking that would require employers to implement an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) to its Spring 2010 Regulatory Agenda.   This is an item that OSHA has wanted since 1989. 

OSHA’ goal for the IIPP is to help employers identify hazards and provide workers with an opportunity to participate in the safety process while reducing injuries.

Key provisions of the program may include:

A requirement that employers systematically identify and remediate risks to workers, develop procedures for inspecting their workplaces for safety and health hazards and investigate accidents.

Methods to provide workers with opportunities to participate in the program.

Provisions requiring that the program be made available to workers so they can understand it and help monitor its implementation.

A requirement that employers implement the program so the program actually protects workers.

Many states currently have requirments for a written safety program.  These programs have been shown to be effective in many workplaces in the United States.  OSHA believes that all workplaces could benefit from an effective injury and illness prevention program.