Resources for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Oregon OSHA Revises Housing Rules for Agricultural Workers

www.ohsonline.com

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division announced it has completed a revision of rules governing employer-provided housing for agricultural workers. The new rules will take effect on May 1, 2008, with the exception of some specific changes that are delayed one year because they are likely to require permitting.

According to the agency, more than 10,000 agricultural workers, mostly seasonal, live in housing provided by their employers. The new rules address concerns by worker advocate organizations about a number of areas, including heat and adequacy of bathing and laundry facilities. The rules also will benefit employers by providing greater consistency in inspection standards, the agency says. Currently, both Oregon OSHA and the U.S. Department of Labor inspect agricultural labor housing using three sets of rules. Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer & Business Services, held meetings with business owners, industry and consumer groups, and state leaders, along with public hearings across the state to develop the new standards.

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