Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the NIOSH OSHA Data Gaps topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sen. Murkowski asks OSHA witness how NIOSH cuts would affect rulemaking data; official points to outside groups
Summary
Senator Murkowski asked an OSHA witness whether proposed cuts to NIOSH would create gaps in research and timely data for rulemaking affecting Alaska’s high-risk industries; the witness suggested professional groups, tribal partners and private resources could help fill gaps but said he has not yet discussed the issue with career OSHA staff.
Senator Murkowski questioned an OSHA witness about how the department would obtain timely research and exposure data for rulemaking if proposed reductions reduce the capacity of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Murkowski cited Alaska’s particularly hazardous industries — including commercial fishing and wildland firefighting — and said she was concerned about recent administration moves that could cut NIOSH funding. She asked whether the Department of Labor and OSHA have a plan "on how we fill the data and information gap if NIOSH is unable to produce what we need in terms of timely data and recommendations as you work to inform rulemaking."
Mr. Keeling, the witness identified with OSHA, acknowledged those concerns and noted a structural distinction: "NIOSH doesn't directly report to the Department of Labor." He said he had not yet spoken with career OSHA staff on that point and suggested that professional groups, tribal entities and private resources could be used to help fill gaps. He added that while such options exist they are "not necessarily easy," and that he would have questions about the matter if confirmed.
The hearing record contains no firm plan or commitment to a specific alternative data source; the witness suggested external groups as possible partial mitigations and indicated further review and staff consultations would be needed.
