October 24, 2001—OSHA will delay for one year the effective date of three provisions of its recordkeeping rule, and establish interim criteria for recording cases of work-related hearing loss. The provisions, postponed until January 1, 2003, are: the criteria for recording work-related hearing loss; the rule’s definition of “musculoskeletal disorder” (MSD); and the requirement that employers check the MSD column on the OSHA log. All other provisions of the rule become effective on January 1, 2002.
The final recordkeeping rule increases employee involvement, creates simpler forms, and gives employers more flexibility to use computers to meet OSHA regulatory requirements. OSHA is determining the easiest and best way for employers to identify and record the three cases noted above.
To assist employers in complying with the new recordkeeping requirements, the agency has launched a new page on its Web site that highlights key provisions and major changes of the new recordkeeping rule. The page details training programs and provides various materials designed to aid employers and workers alike. The new recordkeeping forms and accompanying instructions are also available as a .pdf download. For an explanation of the background and all aspects of the recordkeeping rule, see the Federal Register #66:52031-52034 for October 12, 2001.
