ASSE favors third-party audits for occupational safety and health
The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) is conducting a survey among its members to determine their views on voluntary third-party audits and evaluations pertaining U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) objectives. The ASSE itself has taken the position that such audits and evaluations “will positively influence workplace safety and health.” The data acquired will be used to “further shape and enhance [ASSE`s] position.” The Society was expected to release a report on the survey around mid-May, after press time.
In the past, legislative initiatives sought to have OSHA create a program that would allow employers to retain third-party auditors to inspect their facilities. Once compliance with OSHA standards was documented, the employer would be exempt from civil penalties for two years as long as the workspace did not fundamentally change and a “good faith” effort was made to remain in compliance. Criticism of voluntary third-party audits and evaluations was focused at the level of competence and integrity needed to make the third-party concept workable in occupational safety and health.
