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.

The IAFF’s involvement in the development of OSHA’s Emergency Response Standard is crucial to ensure that the unique needs of fire fighters and emergency responders are prioritized in the final regulations.

By actively participating and providing feedback, the IAFF helps shape policies that protect workers’ safety and health. We will continue to follow this process closely to ensure that our voices are heard and that the final standard delivers the strongest protections possible.

For questions regarding the proposed regulations, email [email protected].

Hear from IAFF staff on the ERS, how to submit your own comments, and the importance of health and safety standards.

Rule-Making Process/Timeline

Step 1

Written Comment Period – ended July 22. Read the IAFF’s comment.

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 – DEADLINE: Jan. 17, 2025 – WE ARE HERE

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