Intertek Gains Ground in OSHA Safety Testing Arena

2026-11093, Amending the Medical Evaluation Requirements in the Respiratory Protection Standard for Certain Types of Respirators

OSHA wants to make it easier for workers using certain respirators by removing some medical check-ups for filtering facepiece and loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators. This change affects workers who wear these masks and could save time and money on medical evaluations. The public can share their thoughts until July 6, 2026, before the rule is finalized.

2026-10456, Department of Labor Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Annual Adjustments for 2026

Good news for businesses and workers: the Department of Labor won’t raise any fines or penalties in 2026 because the usual inflation data wasn’t available. This means all civil penalties stay the same starting May 27, 2026. So, no surprise cost hikes this year—just steady rules and steady fees!

2026-06578, Walking-Working Surfaces

OSHA is proposing to remove the deadline that requires all fixed ladders over 24 feet to have personal fall arrest or ladder safety systems. They’re also asking if employers should be allowed to keep using ladder cages instead of these newer safety systems. This affects employers with tall ladders and could change safety rules, with comments due by June 5, 2026.

2026-17137, Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc.: Grant of Expansion of Recognition

In this notice, OSHA announces the final decision to expand the scope of recognition for Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).

2026-17151, Cadmium in General Industry Standard; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Approval of Information Collection (Paperwork) Requirements

OSHA solicits public comments concerning the proposal to extend Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) approval of the information collection requirements specified in the Cadmium in General Industry Standard.

2026-17140, SGS North America, Inc.: Applications for Expansion of Recognition

In this notice, OSHA announces the applications of SGS North America, Inc. for expansion of the scope of recognition as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) and presents the agency's preliminary finding to grant the applications.

Previous: 2025-16093, QPS Evaluation Services, Inc.: Grant of Expansion of Recognition

OSHA just gave QPS Evaluation Services, Inc. a bigger playground by expanding their official testing powers as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. This means QPS can now test more products to keep workers safe, speeding up approvals without extra costs. If you’re in manufacturing or safety, this change helps get trusted gear to the market faster!

Next: 2025-16095, Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget

The FCC wants to make filling out forms easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They're asking everyone, including other government agencies, to share ideas on how to cut down paperwork. This is part of a plan to save time and hassle, so keep an eye out for when you can give your feedback!