January 31, 2025

OSHA leadership updates, initiative for road safety and more

The Department of Labor (DOL)

DOL names new OSHA deputy assistant secretary

The DOL has named Scott Ketcham as OSHA's new deputy assistant secretary. Ketcham brings over 20 years of OSHA experience to the role, including leadership positions in the Directorate of Enforcement Programs and the Directorate of Construction. His background includes various roles within OSHA, from compliance officer to area director. Ketcham holds a master's degree in public administration, is a Certified Safety Professional and served 24 years in the U.S. military.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA partners to prevent motor vehicle incidents

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, transportation-related incidents accounted for over 36% of fatal work injuries in 2023. To address this leading cause of workplace fatalities, OSHA has joined forces with the National Safety Council and the Road to Zero Coalition. The joint initiative aims to foster a culture of safety and integrate safe driving practices into workplace safety management systems. OSHA's Motor Vehicle Safety webpage offers guidance for employers on developing policies for vehicle safety, including maintenance, seat belt use and distracted driving prevention.

OSHA reminds employers to submit data

OSHA requires establishments with 250 or more employees and those with 20-249 employees in certain high-risk industries to submit injury and illness data annually. Employers must use the Injury Tracking Application (ITA) to submit their 2024 OSHA Form 300A data. The deadline for submission is March 2, 2025. The agency provides resources including an ITA User Guide, frequently asked questions and technical specifications for electronic submission. Employers can also use the ITA Coverage Application to determine if they are required to submit.