---

UAW Responds to OSHA's Proposed Ergonomics Program Standard

14 November 2000

UAW Responds to OSHA's Proposed Ergonomics Program Standard

    DETROIT, Nov. 13 The following statement is attributable
to Stephen P. Yokich, President, International Union, UAW:

    "The UAW applauds OSHA's release of the Ergonomics Program Standard.  This
new health and safety protection will prevent injuries, reduce workers'
compensation costs, and improve workplace quality and efficiency.
    "We aren't done yet.  The leadership of the Republican House is holding
the Labor and Health budget hostage to another attempt to block these new
protections through a budget rider.  We expect the opponents of this
protection, such as the National Association of Manufacturers and the Chamber
of Commerce, to try to block progress by lawsuits.  The UAW will do what is
necessary to defend this standard.
    "Ergonomics problems caused by repetitive motion and overexertion lead to
the majority of work injuries among UAW members.  Our union has negotiated
extensive ergonomics programs with many employers, and we greatly improved our
agreements with the auto companies in the most recent industry negotiations.
    "Responsible employers all see the need for ergonomics.  But the lack of
an enforceable standard, ideological opposition, and competition from poor
corporate citizens limit what we can achieve through negotiations.
    "The UAW fully participated in the OSHA standards process.  We submitted
hundreds of pages of data and testimony to OSHA, and presented over 25
witnesses in three cities.  Our evidence included the experience of shop floor
workers who are using ergonomics programs to prevent injuries, union staff who
bargain for these programs, and health and safety professionals.  We made it
clear that ergonomics programs work, that they are necessary, and that they
prevent injuries and improve efficiency and quality.
    "This standard, while a necessary first step, reflects some compromises in
the face of the fierce industry and political opposition to any rule
protecting workers.  It appears to allow employers to defer action until
workers are hurt, rather than requiring a more proactive approach.  In this
regard, the Ergonomics Program Standard falls somewhat short of many existing
ergonomics programs.  In addition to defending the standard, the UAW will work
to implement and strengthen these protections."