OSHA Proposes Major Changes with New Regulations

News Summary

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published over two dozen proposed rules aimed at modernizing safety standards and enhancing workplace safety regulations. As part of a deregulatory initiative, OSHA encourages feedback from employers and stakeholders during the public comment period, which will impact various industries. Key changes include modifications to the General Duty Clause, elimination of unnecessary medical evaluations, and adjustments in COVID-19 reporting. Employers are urged to remain informed and engaged as these changes may significantly affect compliance and safety practices.

OSHA Proposes Major Changes with Over Two Dozen New Rules

On July 1, 2025, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) unveiled a significant regulatory initiative by publishing more than two dozen proposed rules in the Federal Register. This initiative aims to impact several industries while complying with Executive Order 14192, which calls for identifying existing regulations for repeal as new regulations are proposed.

A Shift Towards Deregulation

Among the proposed changes, many seek to modernize outdated safety standards. Others signal a deregulatory shift by scaling back longstanding obligations. As OSHA embarks on this path, employers, trade associations, and stakeholders are invited to provide their feedback during the open public comment period extending into early September 2025.

Key Rule Changes and Implications

One of the notable final rules implemented as of July 1, 2025, eliminates the requirement for OSHA’s administrator to consult with the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health prior to the modification, establishment, or revocation of construction work standards. This change may streamline regulatory processes, but it also raises concerns about maintaining safety standards without external input.

Another major proposed clarification on the General Duty Clause indicates a pivotal shift in enforcement. OSHA plans to refrain from citing employers for hazards that are “inherent and inseparable from the core nature of a professional activity.” This alteration could reduce OSHA’s enforcement capabilities in industries characterized by high risks, like entertainment and journalism.

Withdrawal of Controversial Proposals

OSHA also withdrew a previously suggested rule regarding a column for recording musculoskeletal disorders, responding to stakeholder concerns about its necessity. Despite this withdrawal, existing obligations for employers pertaining to occupational injury and illness records remain unchanged.

DOL Initiatives for Enhanced Flexibility

Meanwhile, the Department of Labor (DOL) is pursuing regulatory changes aimed at enhancing efficiency for migrant farmworkers. DOL proposals include removing certain regulatory procedures for coordinated enforcement, doing away with outdated and redundant internal procedures to increase flexibility.

Consolidation and Performance-Based Approaches

Additionally, OSHA is considering measures that would consolidate or eliminate duplicative standards and prioritize performance-based approaches over prescriptive requirements. Employers are advised to use this opportunity to reassess their compliance efforts rather than relaxing their safety measures. Engaging in the public comment process is also encouraged.

Potential for Pushback

The proposed adjustments could spark a backlash in states that already have more stringent occupational safety enforcement mechanisms in place. Employers using affected practices should remain vigilant and actively participate in expressing their views on the proposals, especially concerning the limits on enforcement of the General Duty Clause.

Changes Related to Medical Evaluations and COVID-19 Reporting

Among the changes, OSHA suggests eliminating medical evaluations for certain respirators, citing insufficient evidence to connect these evaluations with improved outcomes. Additionally, there is a proposal to cease recordkeeping and reporting of COVID-19 exposure within healthcare environments, signaling a significant shift in the focus of occupational health policies.

Conclusion and Further Considerations

As these proposed rules evolve through the comment period which ends on September 2, 2025, employers are urged to stay informed and proactive regarding their implications. The ongoing changes could greatly alter the landscape of workplace safety and compliance, marking a new phase in OSHA’s regulatory framework. Engaging in the dialogue surrounding these proposed regulations can ensure a thoughtful approach to balancing safety and operational efficiency.

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Additional Resources

• Jackson Lewis: OSHA Proposes Dozens of Deregulatory Rules
• Safety+Health Magazine: In Push for Deregulation, OSHA Publishes One Final Rule and 25 Proposed Rules
• LiveNOW: Trump Labor Deregulation Rules
• JD Supra: OSHA Key Player in DOL Deregulation
• Compliance Week: Trump-Era Deregulation Cuts OSHA Enforcement Powers on Workplace Hazards
• Wikipedia: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Google Search: OSHA deregulation
• Google Scholar: OSHA deregulation
• Google News: OSHA deregulation