OSHA Defense
The OSHA State Plans Web Page Redesign is a Powerful Resource for Contractors
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has implemented a number of substantial improvements to their State Plans web page. This is a powerful new tool for contractors, especially those licensed in multiple states. The changes were first announced in OSHA’s “Quick Takes” newsletter in October, and they’ve already helped streamline the process of accessing pertinent contact information for specific regions and finding the necessary jurisdictional information that applies to those regions. In this short article, the OSHA defense attorneys at Cotney Construction Law will discuss the OSHA State Plans redesign and explain how contractors can take advantage of this comprehensive resource.
What’s New?
Revisions to the State Plans web page include a new color-coded map of the United States that allows users to simply click on a region to access their contact information and links to an expansive trove of OSHA information for different states. On the map, if a state is designated with a single asterisk next to it, it means that the state has an OSHA-approved State Plan covering private and state local government. If a state is marked with a double asterisk, it means that the state has an OSHA-approved State Plan covering state and local government workers exclusively.
In addition, OSHA has added two new sections: Information about State Plans and OSHA’s Monitoring of State Plans. The first section includes links to:
- State Plans’ Safety and Health Standards and Regulations
- State Plans Adoption of Federal OSHA Standards and Directives
- Approval and Establishment Facts about State Plans
The second section includes links to:
- The Federal Annual Monitoring Evaluation (FAME) Records
- State Plan Policy and Procedures Manual
- Contact OSHA’s Office of State Programs
Using OSHA’s State Plans Web Page
When you visit the State Plans web page, you’ll automatically be presented with a map of the United States. To find information on your state, click on it to activate a pop-up box that contains information about your state. From this window, you can access any available links. Unfortunately, the amount of information for each state is unique so the amount of available information greatly differs depending on where your project is taking place. OSHA has also included a news feed at the top of the page.
The redesigned web page is a great resource whether you’re a contractor or an OSHA attorney; and best of all, it’s completely free.
If you would like to speak with an OSHA defense attorney, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.