OSHA requests input on potential update to standard on mechanical power presses

Washington — OSHA is seeking information for, as well as comment on, a potential update to its 50-year-old standard on mechanical power presses.

According to a Request for Information published in the July 28 Federal Register, the standard is based on the 1971 American National Standards Institute industry consensus standard, which has been updated multiple times. Like many others, the standard doesn’t address changes in technology or the use of hydraulic or pneumatic power presses.

OSHA is seeking input on “how closely the standard should follow the current ANSI standard for mechanical power presses.” The agency also requests feedback from stakeholders on what types of presses should be covered in an updated standard, and the use and certification of equipment. Other topics of interest include requirements for press modifications, training, injury reporting and presence-sensing device initiation systems.

OHSA says it will use the information it receives to “determine what action, if any, it may take to reduce regulatory burdens while maintaining worker safety.”

The agency issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on a potential update in June 2007.

The deadline to comment on the RFI is Oct. 26.