Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Representative Charles Bass (R-NH02) supported sound science for safer workplaces last night by voting for the Workplace Preservation Act (H.R. 987). The bill would require the Secretary of Labor to wait for the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to complete and submit to Congress a study of the relationship between frequently performed tasks in the workplace and repetitive stress injuries or disorders before issuing standards or guidelines on ergonomics.

"I believe that the completion of a sound and independent study regarding ergonomics is a common-sense approach to this issue," said Bass. "There is no question that the government and industry should take appropriate steps to protect workers from preventable injuries. But safety regulations should be based on facts and solid scientific evidence, not on assumptions and guess work."

Congress is awaiting the results of an independent study of ergonomics being conducted by the non-partisan National Academy of Sciences. However, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is proceeding with its plans to implement regulations on injuries or disorders caused by the repetitive motion.

"The purpose for the NAS study is to determine if there is a scientific basis for ergonomics-related injuries and whether there is adequate evidence to warrant industry-wide regulations," added Bass. "Unfortunately, it appears that OSHA is drafting ergonomic standards without knowing all the facts and supporting data which is simply irresponsible."

The proposed OSHA standards would force employers to take premature steps to address ergonomics hazards. This could possibly include the redesign of facilities, altering of work stations, or the purchase of new tools and equipment.

"The health and prosperity of American workers and the viability of U.S. industries are at stake," continued Bass. "This issue is too important and unnecessary regulations are too costly and burdensome for OSHA to implement ergonomic standards without knowing all the facts."

Bass is a cosponsor of the Workplace Preservation Act, which passed the House 217-209.