FR 2021-02212

The document announced in the Federal Register relates to the appointment of four new members to the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) by the Secretary of Labor on January 14, 2020. NACOSH serves an advisory role, providing guidance on matters related to occupational safety and health. This committee is composed of 12 members representing various sectors, including public, management, labor, occupational safety, and occupational health professionals. Importantly, the appointments are based on their experience and competence in the field, aiming to ensure that occupational safety and health policies are informed and effective.

General Summary

The newly appointed members include individuals representing different sectors vital to workplace safety: Leanne Cobb as a public representative, Rebecca Reindel from the AFL-CIO as a labor representative, Amy K. Harper from the National Safety Council as a management representative, and Kathleen Dobson from Alberici Constructors, Inc. as a safety representative. The document provides specific information about the process and regulations that govern NACOSH, underscoring its role as a long-standing advisory entity operating under federal regulation.

Significant Issues or Concerns

There are a few concerns regarding the transparency of the appointment process. While the document mentions that the appointments were made based on experience and competence, it does not elaborate on the specific criteria or process by which such evaluations were made. This lack of detailed insight into the selection process could raise questions about the openness of the appointments.

The delay in the appointment of two members by the Secretary of Health and Human Services also presents a concern, as it might impact the committee's functionality and decision-making capabilities. Furthermore, the use of legal references and acronyms without explanation may render the document challenging for lay readers to fully comprehend, potentially limiting its accessibility to the broader public.

Impact on the Public

The work of NACOSH directly affects the public by influencing policies that ensure safe and healthy working conditions across various sectors. The appointment of seasoned experts to NACOSH is intended to enhance the committee's ability to provide informed guidance that reflects real-world challenges and solutions in occupational safety and health. This, in turn, can lead to better protective measures and regulations that benefit workers across the nation.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For industries and companies, these appointments might signal a continued or renewed emphasis on certain safety protocols and standards, which could translate into new compliance requirements. The different sectors represented by NACOSH members suggest a balanced approach, considering the interests of labor forces, management teams, safety professionals, and public needs. These stakeholders could either be positively or negatively affected, depending on the policy directions and recommendations emerging from NACOSH's work. The organized representation within the committee seeks to ensure that varied perspectives are incorporated into decision-making processes.

In conclusion, while the document marks a routine administrative update concerning NACOSH membership, the broader implications extend to the overall effectiveness of occupational safety and health governance in the U.S. It is crucial for stakeholders and the public to remain informed and engaged with NACOSH's activities to ensure that potential issues are addressed proactively and transparently.