OSHA announces hearing on testing-lab accreditation policies

Washington – OSHA plans to host a public forum on March 6 to discuss proposed policy changes to the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Program.

The program accredits organizations that test and approve products that meet consensus-based safety standards. A recent Government Accountability Office report (.pdf file) concluded that OSHA’s process for approving the labs was lengthy and the agency should implement strategies to make the process timelier.

According to an OSHA press release, the hearing, scheduled to take place in Washington, will address proposed interim policies regarding NRTL independence, the initial application process and timeline, and the renewal process.

OSHA said staff is re-examining the program and may propose new or revised guidelines.

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