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News Releases

News Coverage

What the Editorial Pages Are Saying About OSHA's Proposed Ergonomics Regulation

"This approach, which the Labor Department acknowledges will cost industry $4.2 billion (yes, billion) annually, is highhanded bureaucratic nonsense.

"Let's hear the results of the research by the scientists before imposing any new rules on American business, already overburdened by too many government regulations."

Chicago Sun-Times
November 24, 1999

"...the rule is vague enough to cause problems."

The Washington Post
November 24, 1999

"It isn't necessarily easy or even possible to determine whether an injury was caused by a job, by a pre-existing condition or by activities outside of work."

The News Tribune, Tacoma WA
November 29, 1999

"By rushing ahead of the academy's (National Academy of Sciences) study, the government gives the impression of wanting to have a program in place regardless of what an objective study might eventually show. That doesn't seem like the reasonable partnership that government should be building with the private sector. It seems more like an exercise in raw power."

Omaha World-Herald
November 28, 1999

"...OSHA Administrator Charles Jeffress assures us the average 'workstation fix' will cost only $150. Why it will be judged adequate, should a worker not be able to reach an assembly line, to merely let him or her 'stand on a box,' Mr. Jeffress asserts. Really? Just any old box? Do you suppose we could see the official government specifications for an acceptable box?

"Obviously, OSHA's new regulations on ergonomics are overbroad and will cost untold billions."

Las Vegas Review-Journal
November 23, 1999

"The wisdom of volumes of new workplace regulations, with a 1,000-page preamble, is difficult to judge.

"The scope of the rules is huge - 27 million workers - and the cost in dispute. OSHA says $4.2 billion a year; the Small Business Administration says $18 billion. Food wholesalers alone say they face an initial cost of $26 billion to retrofit facilities."

The Commercial Appeal Memphis, TN
November 24, 1999

"The employers' complaints show the potential these guidelines have for sparking intense legal wrangling each time a worker reports an injury - a costly prospect that would benefit neither the employer nor the employee."

Sarasota Herald-Tribune
November 28, 1999

"If regulation is demanded, at the very least wait until the evidence is in."

Chicago Tribune
November 24, 1999

"The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the federal agency that insists on sticking its nose into every nook and cranny of the American workplace whether it needs to or not, is getting ready to strap a new set of regulations on employers aimed at reducing injuries.

"That's fine in theory. The trouble is that the burdensome regulation will be based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific fact. Nevertheless, employers will have to spend billions of dollars, maybe tens of billions of dollars, to comply. Some small employers will likely be forced out of business because of the costs of complying."

Houston Chronicle
October 25, 1999

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from start of Chicago OSHA hearings

(The following statement was released today at the start of OSHA's ergonomic hearings in Chicago, from Jennifer Krese, director of employment policy at the National Association of Manufacturers and member of the National Coalition on Ergonomics)

"Let's hope OSHA begins a new slate with a new city and begins listening to the serious concerns employers have about the proposed ergonomics rule. So far OSHA has ignored employers, ignored the lack of medical and scientific justification for any ergonomics rule, intimidated and cross-examined employers and virtually dismissed the concerns of real-world employers who would be the ones to implement a rule.

"There is no consensus from the medical and scientific communities as to the exact causes and remedies of ergonomic ailments, often called repetitive stress injuries.

"OSHA needs to first answer fundamental questions, such as, how many repetitions are too many? How heavy a lift is too heavy? When does a position become awkward?

"Without consensus opinion from medical and scientific experts it is inappropriate to write a rule that physicians cannot say will reduce injuries.

"The current hearings are a sham. OSHA should instead pursue research first and forget about regulating until it's known how to write a rule that would prevent these injuries."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses supporting ergonomics rules based on sound science.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NCE Blasts Ergo rule as not justified

WASHINGTON - Charging that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is bullying Americans as it forces an ergonomics rule onto the books when science doesn't support the rule, members of the National Coalition on Ergonomics testified today that the agency should scrap its proposal until true justification exists.

"OSHA is using the rulemaking process as a vise to squeeze American employers and employees into an unjust and unreasonable rule," said David Sarvadi, counsel to the National Coalition on Ergonomics.

"The proposal is massive - with a preamble of more than 1,000 pages, it lacks scientific, legal or public policy justification."

NCE members said they could support a rule based on sound science, but that such a foundation does not exist today.

"OSHA has abdicated its responsibility here to provide the scientific and public policy justification for this massive rule. We know it. You know it. It should be scrapped," stated Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the NCE.

"When an agency cites a large volume of technical studies, and then misrepresents their conclusions, they are dealing a rigged hand to the American public to which they are responsible."

The NCE first pointed out OSHA's misrepresentations of the science surrounding ergonomics in 1996. In a review of OSHA's justification for regulating ergonomics Drs. Richard Blume and Howard Sandler found, "OSHA cherry-picked results to support its position and has ignored those that dare to differ with the agency."

Marty Reape, co-chair of the NCE testified, "What we need is comprehensive, impartial research that finds justification exists for an ergonomics rule. Without that kind of support, what OSHA is proposing today is likely to result in more harm than good."

Independent economists have found OSHA's proposed rule could cost as much as $100 billion a year - and even at that cost, it fails to assure the prevention of injuries, members of the NCE added.

"OSHA must think it can do as it pleases," said Sarvadi. "But OSHA's ergonomics rule lacks sound science and playing the bully doesn't change that fundamental fact."

OSHA's public hearings on ergonomics continue in Washington until April 7. Then, the hearings move on to Chicago and Portland.

More information on ergonomics and the NCE can be found at the web site: http://www.ncergo.org/.

The NCE is made up of more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Institute, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Opponents Call On OSHA To Drop Ergo Rule

WASHINGTON - Decrying the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's ergonomics regulation as subjective, ambiguous and unmanageable, members of the National Coalition on Ergonomics today called for the agency to withdraw its rule, as hearings on the controversial regulation began just blocks away.

Standing next to reams and reams of paper that make up the proposed regulation, opponents charged OSHA needs to rethink its approach.

"Take a look at this and you'll understand our nightmare," said Barbara Hiden, director of federal affairs, National Soft Drink Association and member of the National Coalition on Ergonomics, as she surveyed dozens of binders full of page after page of OSHA's proposal.

"This 1,000-plus page rule and the supporting documentation is a nightmare for both employers, and we would argue, employees."

While much of the debate over OSHA's rule has centered on whether medical and scientific evidence supports it, Stu McMichael, who runs a small print shop, said the rule is out of touch with the real world.

"OSHA's ergonomics rule would force me to become a better doctor than the physicians who treat these injuries and the scientists who research this issue," said McMichael.

McMichael and Jim Wordsworth, who operates a local restaurant, said employees are their most important resource.

"Employers are willing to spend money on proven safety programs," said Wordworth. "This proposed rule could actually result in greater harm by taking away from existing programs."

Public hearings began today in Washington focused on OSHA's ergonomics rule.

"Nowhere within the pages of the proposal does OSHA actually answer these fundamental questions surrounding the issue of ergonomics: How many repetitions are too many? How heavy a lift is too heavy? Or when does a position become awkward?" said Hiden. "That's because OSHA doesn't have those answers, so they have decided to write a regulation forcing employers to figure out what has thus far eluded the entire medical and scientific communities."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics is scheduled to testify at OSHA's public hearings next week.

More information on ergonomics and the NCE can be found at the web site: http://www.ncergo.org/.

The NCE is made up of more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Institute, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ergo Rule 'Unreasonable' And 'Unworkable' Opponents Charge

WASHINGTON - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) proposed ergonomics regulation reaches conclusions that no reasonable person would find, charged the National Coalition on Ergonomics in formal comments submitted to the agency.

"OSHA's fix for ergonomics is beyond comprehension," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of NCE, which represents employers from every sector of American business.

In reference to the coalition's comments, Gilroy added, "Looking at the data and the record as a whole, there is no way any reasonable person could agree with OSHA's contention that there is scientific, legal or public policy justification for the agency's proposed ergonomics rule.

"The requirements of the rule are subjective and ambiguous, assuring that an employer could never achieve compliance because, in all of its more than 1,000 pages, not a single proven solution is provided. Even the best-intentioned employer will be unable to understand what this proposal requires, no matter how many lawyers or experts he or she hires."

The NCE has long supported safety and health programs, but in OSHA's proposed ergonomics regulation the coalition only sees a costly experiment that fails to assure the prevention of injuries.

"Nothing in the proposed regulation assures the prevention of even one injury," said Gilroy, "The only assurance is that this is the most expensive regulation ever proposed by OSHA. Even the agency admits its estimates are the highest costs ever proposed and we think those estimates are unrealistically low."

OSHA estimates the cost of its regulation to be $4.2 billion. A review of OSHA's economic analysis by the National Economic Research Associates found, "OSHA has understated control costs, overstated productivity gains, and overstated the effectiveness of job control interventions." Additionally, Food Distributors International, a trade organization representing grocery distribution centers, estimates the cost of the regulation to its industry alone at $26 billion the first year with recurring annual costs of $6 billion. The Employment Policy Foundation found the cost to implement OSHA's proposed ergonomics rule could be as much as $100 billion.

In its comments, the NCE also charged that OSHA is using this rulemaking process as an unlawful subterfuge to avoid its responsibility of proving that work is the direct and sole cause of these conditions and that there are workplace solutions to prevent them.

"OSHA has decreed - without scientific foundation - that all of these ailments are work-related unless the employer can prove otherwise," said Gilroy. "The result is a regulatory monstrosity that would hurt businesses without the certainty of helping employees."

The NCE's formal comments will be placed on the web site: http://www.ncergo.org/.

The NCE is made up of more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Institute, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement responding to OSHA's granting an extension of the ergonomics proposal public comment period

Statement from Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics, responding to OSHA's granting an extension of the ergonomics proposal public comment period


"After a deluge of more than 1,000 requests from the business community, OSHA has shown a glimmer of common sense by finally extending the public comment period on its proposed ergonomics standard. If only some of that new-found light could be shed on the agency's brazen rush to regulate an area where science doesn't justify it, the nation and its workers would be better served. "Apparently, it takes 'a thousand, pointed comments' to get OSHA's attention.

Thirty additional days helps some, but there are still documents missing from the docket, which the public has a right to review as part of the comment period. Those documents should be available before the comment period runs out.

"A 30-day extension does not justify an unsound regulation when fundamental questions about ergonomics remain unanswered. How many repetitions are too many? How heavy a lift is too heavy? When does a motion become awkward? These questions will require more than 30 days to adequately answer.

"In its extension request, the NCE recommended the comment period be lengthened by 120 days. We are convinced that OSHA should apply some of its passion for regulation to research and accommodate this reasonable request." The NCE represents virtually every sector of the American workplace -- more than 300 associations and businesses -- including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Institute, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement Regarding OSHA's Withdrawal Of Its Advisory On Home Offices

Statement from Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics, concerning OSHA's withdrawal of its advisory that said employers are liable for the safety and ergonomics of home offices

"Fortunately, OSHA has recognized the absurdity of its home office liability advisory," said Gilroy. "Now, the agency should recognize the same nebulous qualities in its proposed ergonomics regulation and withdraw it.

"There is no consensus in the medical or scientific communities as to the clear causes or cures for repetitive stress injuries. This lack of clarity calls for greater study, not a regulation.

"OSHA's blind pursuit of an ergonomics regulation would result in making workplaces - at home or in traditional locations - laboratories for a costly experiment which fails to assure the prevention of even one injury. The OSHA home office advisory illustrates how a vague, broadly worded standard would be used by OSHA to force its views on all Americans, even in the privacy of their own homes.

"If OSHA doesn't withdraw the ergonomics proposal completely, it should, at the very least, extend the public comment period for its proposed ergonomics regulation, so that the public would have enough time to digest and respond to it.

"OSHA took more than two years to write its home office advisory. It has limited the public to just two months to evaluate and comment on the more than 1,000 page ergonomics proposal."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses from every sector of American industry.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Repeated Trauma Injuries Down For Fourth Year

WASHINGTON - Repeated trauma injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, continue to decline dramatically, according to the latest statistics released by the federal government. The injuries have declined by 24 percent since 1994 and make up just 4 percent of all workplace injuries and illnesses. Despite this encouraging trend, these types of injuries are the target of a controversial proposed regulation from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that the National Coalition on Ergonomics calls "reckless and lacking in sound science."

"OSHA has issued a 1,000+ page ergonomic standard proposal," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics. "We oppose it because it would be extremely costly; but more importantly, it fails to assure the prevention of even one injury. This new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is reason number 1,001 to call it into question." There is no consensus opinion from the medical and scientific communities as to basic ergonomics-related questions, such as, how many repetitions are too many or how heavy a lift is too heavy.

"Year after year the number of workers continues to rise, yet these numbers continue to fall," said Gilroy. "Employers are committed to providing a safe workplace. And, while we don't know enough to regulate, these number reflect the common sense steps employers are taking to protect their workers."

The latest statistics are for the year 1998. Then, 253,300 repeated trauma disorders were reported. In 1994 that number was 332,000. The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Institute, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics responding to the pending release of OSHA's ergonomics rule

"OSHA continues to ignore the evidence as it recklessly pursues an ergonomics standard," said Gilroy. "It's proposed rule would cost employers billions of dollars while failing to assure the prevention of even one injury. "Under the OSHA proposal, workplaces would now become laboratories for government experimentation.

"There is no consensus opinion from the medical and scientific communities as to what causes or remedies repeated trauma injuries. We don't know the answers to fundamental questions, such as, how many repetitions would be too many, how heavy a lift is too heavy or what is an awkward position? "We need comprehensive, unbiased research, not an ergonomics regulation."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses from every sector of American industry.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Government Agency Disputes Cost, Benefit And Urgency Of OSHA's Ergonomics Regulation

WASHINGTON - As the controversial issue of ergonomics heads toward a showdown in Congress before its adjournment, another government report raises questions about the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's claims, including whether now is the time to regulate ergonomics.

The latest blow to OSHA's effort to issue an ergonomics standard comes from the Small Business Administration's analysis of the standard's costs and benefits.

It states "that the costs of the proposed standard could be anywhere from 2.5 to 15 times higher than those estimated by OSHA." It also says that OSHA's estimate of benefits "may be significantly overstated."

This is the second time this year the Small Business Administration has challenged OSHA related to ergonomics.

"The report clearly shows OSHA is significantly underestimating the negative impact of an ergonomics standard," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics. "Add this to the report from the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel, which included a representative from OSHA, that recommended the agency slow down its rush to regulate, and you see OSHA as an agency willing to stretch the facts to sell an unsupportable position on ergonomics."

In April the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel issued a report that said OSHA should explain why it refuses to wait until the National Academy of Sciences review of medical literature related to ergonomics is completed. That panel consisted of representatives from OSHA, the Office of Management and Budget and the Small Business Administration, and received recommendations from 20 small businesses.

"OSHA can't have it both ways," said Gilroy. "On the one hand it says the cost of a regulation is minimal and that medical evidence supports a rule. Then, under the scrutiny of other agencies and small business owners we learn that OSHA's cost estimates are low and even the panel, which OSHA is a part of, concedes that further research should be considered before regulating.

"OSHA should permit the comprehensive, impartial review underway by the National Academy of Sciences to be completed before regulating ergonomics. What is the agency afraid of?"

The reports from the Small Business Administration are available on its web site: http://www.sba.gov/.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the American Small Businesses Association, National Federation of Independent Business, Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from Ed Gilroy

Statement from Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics responding to today's Senate action concerning ergonomics and the Labor HHS Appropriations bill:

"We are pleased that Senate leadership recognizes the lack of sound science within OSHA's proposed ergonomics rule and is committed to passing and sending to the President legislation concerning ergonomics," said Ed Gilroy.

Today the Senate considered the Bond Amendment. While final action was postponed, the amendment would have prevented OSHA from rushing forward with an ergonomics rule.

"While today's debate was contentious, we believe the Bond Amendment has bipartisan support and would have passed had it not been for parliamentary delaying tactics," continued Gilroy.

"We look forward to the Senate revisiting this issue before Congress adjourns.

"The National Coalition on Ergonomics will continue to push for comprehensive, impartial research before OSHA regulates this issue. Fundamental questions still remain unanswered. Questions such as, how many repetitions are too many? How heavy a lift is too heavy? What is an awkward position?

"Without answers to basic questions and solid medical evidence to back those answers up, an ergonomics regulation today would only make American workplaces laboratories for unscientific government rules.

"Employers should not be expected to play doctor. Instead, physicians should provide the answers. And those on the front line of this issue - hand surgeons - say that no 'definable diagnosis' exists concerning so-called ergonomic ailments.

"It is notable, these injuries are declining. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows repeated trauma injuries have decline by 17% in the three most recent years reported and make up just 4% of all workplace injuries and illnesses."

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ergonomic Research Before Regulation, House Votes

WASHINGTON - The U.S. House of Representatives sent a message today saying that before the government can regulate the controversial issue of ergonomics, comprehensive research must be done. HR 987, authored by Representative Roy Blunt (MO), was approved with bipartisan support.

"Any ergonomics regulation must be supported by sound science," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics. "Right now there is no consensus in the medical and scientific communities on fundamental questions about ergonomics. For example: How many repetitions result in injury? How heavy a lift is too heavy? What is an awkward position? Employers need these answers to know what OSHA's regulation would require." Dr. Michael Vender, a hand surgeon, who has done one of the few scientific reviews of medical literature concerning musculoskeletal disorders and their work-relatedness, testified before Congress in April, "The primary conclusion we reached is that none of the reviewed studies established a causal relationship between distinct medical entities and work activities. We stated that further research, using well constructed studies incorporating reliable epidemiology and generally accepted diagnostic criteria are needed."

Further research is the objective of HR 987. It directs the completion of a study ordered by last year's Congress that is based on a review of all scientific literature related to ergonomics over the next 15 months. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) would have to complete the study before the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues an ergonomics rule. "Employers are committed to the well-being and safety of their workers. But why regulate now when our understanding of ergonomics is limited and a poorly drafted regulation could do more harm than good?" asked Gilroy.

Repeated trauma cases have been declining. A report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a 17 percent drop in the most recent three-year period ending with 1997.

The Senate now takes up the companion bill to HR 987 introduced by Senator Christopher (Kit) Bond (S 1070). The National Coalition on Ergonomics supports the Bond bill and Congress' efforts to assure that OSHA does the right thing.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sound Science Prevails In House Vote

WASHINGTON - A bipartisan bill supporting ergonomic research before regulation received approval in a critical congressional vote today and is now headed to the full House of Representatives.

HR 987 passed the Committee on Education and the Workforce. It is authored by U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO) and sponsored by more than 150 members of Congress.

"This legislation simply says sound science must precede an ergonomics regulation," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics. "It's a common sense approach to a complex issue." Dr. Michael Vender, a hand surgeon who co-authored one of the few reviews of medical literature concerning musculoskeletal disorders and their work-relatedness, addressed that complexity when testifying before Congress in April: "As a clinician I have concerns that OSHA's proposed ergonomics standard is at best misguided and at worst counterproductive." Concerning the review of literature he led, Vender said, "The primary conclusion we reached is that none of the reviewed studies established a causal relationship between distinct medical entities and work activities. We stated that further research, using well constructed studies incorporating reliable epidemiology and generally accepted diagnostic criteria are needed."

HR 987 directs the completion of a review, currently underway, by the National Academy of Sciences before the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues an ergonomics rule.

"OSHA arrogantly claims to know enough, when physicians continue to say there is no consensus on what causes or cures repetitive stress injuries," said Gilroy. "Instead OSHA needs to do a better job of consulting the experts for solid answers.

"A comprehensive, independent review, such as the one commissioned by Congress and the President to be done by the National Academy of Sciences, is a first step in determining what it is we know and don't know about ergonomics."

The National Academy of Sciences panel reviewing ergonomics first met in May. It has 18-24 months from January of this year to complete its review. "There is no reason to rush a regulation when a misstep may result in more injuries," added Gilroy. "There is no reason to rush and every reason to be cautious, especially considering these injuries are already on a clear decline."

The most recently available numbers show repeated trauma injuries have declined 17 percent in the three-year period ending with 1997, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The most well known repeated trauma cases, carpal tunnel syndrome, have dropped nearly 29 percent since 1993.

HR 987 now goes to the full House for a floor vote.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ergonomic Legislation Passes First Step

WASHINGTON - The call for ergonomic research before regulation has cleared its first legislative hurdle as HR 987 passed the Workforce Protections Subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives today.

The legislation is sponsored by more than 120 members of Congress and authored by U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO).

"It's time OSHA recognized the importance of doing its homework before issuing a regulation," said Blunt. "Instead of threatening the jobs of hard working Americans with a regulation that could force the automation of work tasks while failing to assure the prevention of injuries, the agency should first permit a comprehensive, impartial review of ergonomics to determine what is really necessary."

The legislation directs the completion of a review, currently underway, by the National Academy of Sciences before the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues an ergonomics rule. The National Coalition on Ergonomics has long held the position that caution should proceed any ergonomics regulation considering so much is unknown about the cause, cure and prevention of so-called ergonomic disorders.

"A foundation of science and medical evidence must be in place before writing an ergonomics regulation," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the NCE. "We are pleased that the committee recognized the need for this foundation and took the first step to make it happen."

The full Committee on Education and the Workforce will next consider the bill.

In the U.S. Senate the companion legislation to HR 987, the Sensible Ergonomics Needs Scientific Evidence Act - SENSE Act, was introduced yesterday by Senator Christopher Bond of Missouri with 29 cosponsors. When introducing the legislation Bond said, ' It only makes sense for OSHA to wait for the scientific and medical information needed to know whether it is headed down the right path."

Meantime, new information from the federal government reveals significantly fewer carpal tunnel syndrome cases. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports new data shows carpal tunnel syndrome cases have dropped nearly 29 percent from 1993 to 1997.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Small Business Report: More Information, Not Regulation

WASHINGTON - Representatives of America's small businesses questioned the need for a federally proposed ergonomics regulation in a recent report and said the proposed regulation would force jobs overseas and create discrimination against some workers.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration must consider the report written by the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel before advancing its ergonomics proposal.

Members of the panel recommended that OSHA pursue "non-regulatory avenues," such as the dissemination of information. They also recommended that if OSHA insists on writing a rule, it take into consideration the scientific review underway by the National Academy of Sciences beforehand.

"Until we have a firm grasp on the medical knowledge needed to explain what the causes and cures of so-called ergonomic injuries are, any ergonomics regulation is premature!" wrote Cliff Wilcox, a California landscaper and member of the panel. "We need a sound diagnosis from a panel of physicians -- not physicians employed by OSHA," Wilcox wrote in a letter submitted to the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel, " before attempting a cure by government regulators."

The report, released last week, also stated that panel members concluded OSHA had "significantly underestimated" the costs associated with its proposed regulation while failing to assure that the regulation would actually prevent injuries.

The Small Business Advocacy Review Panel's report was done under the guidance of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Management and Budget, and OSHA. The panel included 20 individuals from small businesses.

In the report, Peter Myers, a small business representative from the textile industry, said the proposed rule would be burdensome and he foresees textile companies moving their jobs out of the country.

Other small business representatives feared OSHA's proposed rule would actually encourage unlawful discrimination against some workers, such as older Americans, who might be perceived as more vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics strongly opposes an ergonomics regulation such as the draft that OSHA has released. The coalition believes an ergonomics regulation is unwarranted until OSHA can say how much exposure to hazards is too much, what injuries occur as a result and how to prevent injuries.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses. Its members include the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OSHA Chief, U.S. Rep. Blunt Appear Before Nce

WASHINGTON - Two of the leading players in the debate over ergonomics presented their positions to the National Coalition on Ergonomics today.

Despite testimony before Congress last week by leading physicians that current medical evidence does not support an ergonomics regulation at this time, Charles Jeffress, assistant secretary of labor of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, insisted that his agency doesn't need more evidence.

"We know enough to act right now," Jeffress told an audience of NCE members. "And now is the time to act."

Congress, however, has directed the National Academy of Sciences to complete the first-ever comprehensive review of the science surrounding ergonomics. U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO) has introduced legislation that would require OSHA to wait for the completion of that National Academy of Sciences' review before enacting an ergonomics rule.

"There are significant questions about the validity of the science concerning ergonomics," Blunt told the NCE meeting. "We need to resolve the science. We don't need a vague and ambiguous regulation."

Blunt's legislation, HR 987, is co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of more than 120 congressional members.

"OSHA should discard its proposed ergonomics regulation and support efforts to develop the science that will help working Americans, instead of threatening to eliminate jobs by prematurely writing a rule that would encourage automation," added Blunt.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics strongly supports the National Academy of Sciences review or any thorough review of the medical evidence not hampered by bias.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ergonomics Rule Harmful, Physicians Testify

WASHINGTON - Offering their prescription for musculoskeletal disorders, two of the nation's leading physicians told Congress that the current state of medical and scientific evidence fails to support any ergonomic rule today and strongly emphasized further research is necessary.

"As a clinician I have concerns that OSHA's proposed ergonomics standard is at best misguided and at worst counterproductive," testified Dr. Michael Vender, a hand surgeon who co-authored one of the few reviews of medical literature concerning musculoskeletal disorders and their work-relatedness.

"The primary conclusion we reached is that none of the reviewed studies established a causal relationship between distinct medical entities and work activities," Vender told Congress in a hearing before the Subcommittee on Work Force Protections. "We stated that further research, using well constructed studies incorporating reliable epidemiology and generally accepted diagnostic criteria are needed."

Dr. Stanley Bigos, from the University of Washington, joined Vender in criticizing "indistinct labels," such as repetitive stress injuries and cumulative trauma disorders, because
these labels imply a cause and effect relationship which is not supported by the scientific research.

The physicians also believe that a scientific review, such as the nearly $1 million project conducted by the National Academy of Sciences and directed by Congress now underway, will find great gaps in what is known about ergonomics.

"If the National Academy of Sciences does a thorough, methodological review of the reliable science surrounding ergonomics it will be very condemning," testified Bigos. "Reliable information does not exist on which to justify a government rule. We need more direction than is available from hypothesis generating papers."

Drs. Bigos and Vender spoke before the committee as Congress considers legislation permitting the completion of that National Academy of Sciences' first-ever comprehensive review of medical literature related to ergonomics before the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) makes its proposed ergonomics regulation final.

The legislation is authored by U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO) and co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of more than 90 other congressional members. HR 987 was the focus of today's hearing.

"It's irresponsible for OSHA to rush forward with an experimental regulation that may actually hurt workers instead of help them," said Blunt while leading off the informational hearing. "As safety continues to be a top priority in our workplaces, OSHA should scrap its proposed ergonomics rule and support efforts to develop sound science - sound science that will help working Americans."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics was one of the early supporters of the congressional directive to the National Academy of Sciences, calling on it to review the medical record of ergonomics to determine what it is we know and don't know about the controversial issue.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and businesses, including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Proposed Ergonomic Rule: 'Arbitrary and Capricious'

WASHINGTON - A leader of the National Coalition on Ergonomics today testified before Congress that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's proposed ergonomic regulation is an "exercise of raw political power" which appears "arbitrary and capricious."

David Sarvadi, counsel to the coalition which represents more than 300 associations and businesses, appeared before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and the Workforce's Subcommittee on Workforce Protections.

Ergonomics refers to the way workplaces fit workers.

Sarvadi stated that OSHA's authority to create an ergonomics rule must be based on objective information and that such underlying science does not exist today.

"We cannot emphasize enough how important it is for OSHA to have a sound scientific foundation," Sarvadi testified.

"Until a better correlation is made between specific kinds of activities and conditions, it is impossible to predict whether the proposed regulation would reduce or increase injuries.

"It is important to acknowledge that any regulatory approach must contain certainty, if it is to be effective."

Last month, OSHA issued a draft ergonomic regulation.

Earlier this month, U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO), introduced bipartisan legislation mandating that a first-ever comprehensive, impartial review of ergonomics by the National Academy of Sciences be completed before OSHA establishes an ergonomic regulation.

Today's hearing was intended to update Congress on workplace safety developments.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics supports efforts by OSHA to write a regulation based on sound science. It opposes efforts to regulate without adequate medical evidence. Members of the National Coalition on Ergonomics include the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, Food Distributors International, Food Marketing Ass'n, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Legislation: Sound Science Before Ergonomic Regulation

WASHINGTON - Calling it the kind of "common sense" we need, business leaders from the National Coalition on Ergonomics threw their support behind legislation introduced today which permits needed research to happen before the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues an ergonomic regulation.

Ergonomics is the study of how workplaces fit workers.

The bill, by U.S. Representative Roy Blunt (MO), mandates a first-ever comprehensive, impartial review of ergonomics by the National Academy of Sciences be completed before OSHA creates a rule.

"Any ergonomic regulation must be built on a foundation of sound science and medical evidence," said Ed Gilroy, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics.

"Right now OSHA has proposed a regulation lacking sound science. We need solid proof - a foundation of scientific data - in order to assure that an ergonomic regulation would actually prevent repetitive stress injuries."

Rep. Blunt's proposed legislation would require the completion of the National Academy of Sciences' ergonomic review before OSHA could create a standard or guideline.

"Without answers to fundamental questions about what causes and what prevents repetitive stress injuries, a regulation today would be an enormous failure -- costing billions of dollars without promise of preventing even one injury," said Gilroy.

The National Academy of Sciences review will be completed within 18 to 24 months.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and companies from virtually every sector of American business. Its members include the Academy of General Dentistry, American Bakers Association, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

'Sound Science Absent From Proposed Ergonomic Rule'

WASHINGTON -- Representing the nation's business leaders, the National Coalition on Ergonomics today charged that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has once again proven it is willing to ignore the true state of medical knowledge in its dogged pursuit of an ergonomic regulation.

"We need to follow the lead offered by physicians and other medical scientists," said Robb MacKie, vice president, government relations, of the American Bakers Association and member of the National Coalition on Ergonomics.

"There is no consensus in the medical and scientific communities as to the clear causes and remedies for repetitive stress injuries. Without basic scientific understanding, an ergonomic regulation today is just guesswork.

"Any ergonomic regulation must be based on sound science. Such a foundation does not exist today.

"In fact, OSHA's proposed rule would make America's workplaces laboratories for costly ergonomic experiments, while failing to offer the assurance of preventing even one injury."

With its release of a draft ergonomic regulation, OSHA seems to be intent on ignoring the first ever comprehensive, impartial examination of ergonomics. Last year Congress directed the respected National Academy of Sciences to review the medical research related to ergonomics and workplace injuries. The review should be completed in 18 to 24 months.

"We need to understand the causes of repetitive stress injuries better before we regulate," said MacKie. "Right now, we are just guessing at what might cause problems, and more importantly, what might be the cures. There is no reason to rush to adopt a broad, bureaucratic regulation when fundamental questions, such as how many repetitions are too many, remain unanswered."

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and companies from virtually every sector of American business, including the American Bakers Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, Associated Builders and Contractors, Food Distributors International, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, Food Marketing Institute, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Al Lundeen, News Director - (202) 293-3384
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OSHA's Ergonomic Rule Out Prior To Medical Study

WASHINGTON - Charging that the latest draft ergonomics regulation lacks sound science, business leaders from across the country denounced the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) renewed rush to regulate.

Reports of OSHA's proposed ergonomics rule surfaced this week.

"Until we have a firm grasp on the medical knowledge needed to explain what the causes and cures of so-called ergonomic injuries are, any ergonomics regulation is premature," said Laurie Baulig, co-chair of the National Coalition on Ergonomics.

"Congress just approved a first of its kind comprehensive review of all medical studies related to ergonomics to determine what it is we know and don't know. That review is being done by the respected National Academy of Sciences. OSHA now responds by declaring it doesn't need to wait for such basic facts.

"Workers' needs demand the opposite. We must diagnose the problem before regulating.

"Instead, OSHA wants to force an experiment upon employers and employees, which could cost billions of dollars while failing to assure the prevention of even one injury."

Meantime, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported repeated trauma cases are on a steady decline. For the latest three year period reported (1995-97), repeated trauma cases have fallen by 17 percent.

The National Academy of Sciences review should take 18 to 24 months to complete.

The National Coalition on Ergonomics represents more than 300 associations and companies from virtually every sector of American business. Its members include the American Bakers Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Small Businesses Ass'n, American Trucking Associations, Precision Metalforming Ass'n, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Center for Office Technology, National Ass'n of Home Builders, National Ass'n of Manufacturers, National Beer Wholesalers Ass'n, National Federation of Independent Business, National Soft Drink Ass'n and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

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