OSHA Extends Comment Period for Lookback Review of Methylene Chloride Standard

Washington, DC (CompNewsNetwork) - The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reopened the public comment period for the review of its methylene chloride (MC) Standard (29 CFR section 1910.1052). The Review was originally announced in the July 10, 2007, Federal Register (72 FR 37501 - 37503).

OSHA issued the Standard in 1997 to protect employees from occupational exposure to MC. The Federal Register notice (www.osha.gov) invites suggestions from the public on how the Standard's requirements could be modified to reduce the burden on employers while maintaining employee protection. OSHA is accepting comments until March 10, 2008.

Among its many applications, methylene chloride is used in metal degreasing and aircraft paint removal. It is also used to strip finishes from furniture prior to refinishing, as well as in the manufacturing of some plastics, adhesives, inks, and ink solvents.

Public comments must be submitted no later than March 10, 2008, and can be sent by regular mail, express, hand delivery, or by courier service. Comments should be sent to the OSHA Docket Office, Docket No. OSHA-2007-0024, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., N.W., Room N2625, Washington, DC 20210. Comments are also accepted electronically at www.regulations.gov. Comments may be sent by FAX to 202-693-1648.

For further information, contact Joanna Dizikes Friedrich, Directorate of Evaluation and Analysis, OSHA, Room N3641, 200 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20210, telephone 202-693-1939.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.

U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audiotape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request at (202) 693-7828 or TTY (202) 693-7755. The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.

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