Barab's response

In a letter included in the Government Accoun­tability Office’s report on the Voluntary Pro­tection Programs, acting OSHA administrator Jordan Barab offered his response to the issues GAO raised.

On the need for better documentation: “The agency … is committed to developing better documentation requirements and strengthening internal controls to ensure consistent compliance with VPP policies and procedures across its regions.”

On the possibility of unqualified businesses in the program: “OSHA is concerned by the cases highlighted and the participant injury and illness rates statistics contained in the report. The agency intends to review case specifics and determine … whether changes are warranted.”

On finding better measurements of VPP effectiveness: “OSHA also will continue to identify and refine other appropriate VPP performance measures.”

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