September 26, 2001—The US Department of Labor (DOL) announced September 21, 2001, that, in the wake the recent national tragedy, the Department will temporarily postpone the announcement of a plan of action on ergonomics. The announcement, which was expected in September, will be made later this fall.
In July, the Department conducted three forums in Virginia, Illinois, and California, to solicit public comment on ergonomics. Witness testimony and written comments are under review.
Staff of the DOL and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) have been heavily involved in the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, which has prevented them from devoting full attention to this important issue. For more information, contact OSHA.
