In an unprecedented move, it appears David Michaels may be staying on board as OSHA administrator during President Barack Obama’s second term.
The Small Business Administration is reporting that Michaels, his second-in-command Jordan Barab, and Chief of Staff Deborah Berkowitz will remain at OSHA.
With Michaels remaining at the agency, he will become the longest serving assistant secretary of labor in OSHA’s history. Before him, the longest serving OSHA administrator was Eula Bingham, who served from April 1977 to January 1981 – three years and nine months.
I’ve contacted OSHA and Department of Labor representatives seeking confirmation. I’ll report back here when they respond.
Update: An OSHA spokesperson has gotten back to me and confirmed Michaels, Barab and Berkowitz will all remain at OSHA for Obama’s final term.
The opinions expressed in “Washington Wire” do not necessarily reflect those of the National Safety Council or affiliated local Chapters.
