OSHA solicits input on rail roadway work rule

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is seeking comments on a proposed rule regarding equipment in the cranes and derricks construction standard.The proposed rule follows a settlement agreement between OSHA and the Association of American Railroads (AAR), according to an OSHA press release."OSHA's proposal will maintain safety and health protections for workers, and address employers' compliance burdens," OSHA officials said.The final rule for cranes and derricks in construction was published Aug. 9, 2010. However, AAR filed a petition challenging certain requirements that affected railroad roadway work equipment.The parties' negotiated settlement required OSHA to propose a rule that will provide clarifications and exemptions that affect work on or along railroad track.Comments on that proposed rule are due Sept. 17 and may be submitted electronically by clicking here.