H.R. 2844: Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act

This bill, known as the Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act, aims to create a program overseen by the Secretary of Labor that recognizes employers who voluntarily commit to high standards of workplace safety and health management. Here are the key components of the bill:

Program Establishment

The Secretary of Labor is required to set up a program that encourages employers to implement comprehensive safety and health management systems. These systems must include:

• Systematic assessment of workplace hazards.
• Programs for preventing, mitigating, and controlling hazards.
• Active participation from both management and employees in the safety program.
• Employee training related to safety and health.

Voluntary Protection Program Details

A specific program named the Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program will be established to:

• Recognize employers who show excellence in protecting employees from workplace hazards.
• Require employers to apply for participation and demonstrate that their worksite meets established safety criteria.
• Mandate annual self-evaluations and conduct onsite evaluations by the Department of Labor to ensure compliance without issuing citations under existing safety laws.
• Require employers to provide information about their safety programs to the Department, which will also be accessible to employees.
• Implement periodic reevaluations to maintain participation in the program.
• Exempt worksites that are part of the program from routine inspections.
• Ensure there are no costs to employers to participate in this program.

Modernization and Support

The Secretary of Labor must develop a written plan within two years of enactment to modernize the technology used in administering the program. This includes improving the processes for applications, evaluations, and reporting. The goal is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the program.

Challenge Program

The bill also instructs the Secretary of Labor to modernize a tiered challenge program for safety management systems that will assist employers in evaluating their performance, also at no cost to the participants.

Transitioning from Previous Programs

The bill provides for a smooth transition from any previous voluntary protection programs to the new program, ensuring that existing participants can continue their involvement if they were in good standing prior to the enactment of this legislation.

Funding

The bill requires that at least 5% of the funds appropriated to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration each year be allocated to implementing the provisions of this Act.

Regulations and Implementation Timeline

The Secretary of Labor is mandated to issue final regulations for the program and begin its implementation within two years after the Act's enactment.

Relevant Companies

None found