AOHC Encore 2024-209 OSHA Investigations: Ergonomics and PFAS cases

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session provided an overview of OSHA's activities related to ergonomics and recent clusters of deaths in a Fortune 1000 company. Dr. Liz Bonson discussed the history of ergonomics and OSHA's approach to ergonomics inspections and citations. The session also highlighted the challenges in enforcing safety regulations, especially in industries with high rates of musculoskeletal injuries, such as meatpacking and warehousing.<br /><br />The discussion also touched on the potential use of exoskeletons for reducing musculoskeletal risks and the challenges faced by workers in low-wage and high-risk industries. Additionally, the need for cultural and systemic changes to prioritize worker safety and health was emphasized over relying solely on economic arguments or enforcement measures.<br /><br />Furthermore, the session shed light on the limitations of OSHA's current penalty structure and the challenges of holding C-suite executives accountable for workplace safety violations. While legislative changes may be limited in addressing these issues, there is a need for a shift in organizational culture towards a collaborative and proactive approach to worker safety.

Keywords

OSHA activities

ergonomics

workplace safety

musculoskeletal injuries

exoskeletons

safety regulations

enforcement measures

worker health

penalty structure

C-suite accountability

organizational culture