OSHA Emergency Response Standard
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is proposing an update to workplace protections for fire fighters and other emergency service personnel, marking the first significant revision in over 40 years.
The proposed standard seeks to update the Fire Brigades Standard, enacted in 1980, and rename it the Emergency Response Standard.
It calls for changes in all aspects of emergency response, including staffing, training, apparatus readiness, and protective clothing and equipment. Additionally, it will require employers to obtain baseline medical screenings for all emergency responders and requires access to behavioral health resources.
The proposed rule calls for a more effective, involved labor-management partnership.
It is vital that we provide our feedback to OSHA regarding the regulations covered in this proposed standard. We recommend that you thoroughly review the IAFF’s regulation summaries and positions before drafting your comments.
For questions regarding the proposed regulations, email [email protected]. For assistance submitting your comments, email [email protected].
Public Comment Period
FAQs
Summary List
Full Proposal
Rule-Making Process/Timeline
Step 1 – WE ARE HERE
Written Comment Period – deadline June 21 (comment here)
Step 2
Public Hearing – oral testimony by those who submitted comments; opportunity to respond to things said in comments and ask questions of other groups.
Step 3
Post-Hearing Written Comment Period – opportunity to respond to things said during public hearing
Step 4
Post-Hearing Legal Briefs – opportunity to outline legal position