OSHA Modifies Lab Testing Rules for Safer Products
Published Date: 9/12/2025
Notice
Summary
OSHA wants to update the list of test rules that safety labs (NRTLs) use and change what some labs are officially allowed to test. This affects companies relying on these labs to check their products for safety. The changes aim to keep testing clear and up-to-date, with no big costs expected, and will roll out after a public review period.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Approved Test Standards Removed
OSHA proposes to delete certain test standards from the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) Program's list of appropriate test standards. If you rely on NRTLs to certify your products, the specific tests your safety lab can use may change, which could affect how you get products tested.
NRTL Recognition Scope Changed
OSHA proposes to modify the scope of recognition for several Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs). If your company uses those labs to test products for workplace safety, which labs are recognized to test which products may change after the update.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2026-19833, Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc.: Application for Expansion of Recognition
Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. wants to expand its official status as a trusted safety tester recognized by OSHA. This means they can test more products to keep workers safe. If you have thoughts or info about this, you have until October 14, 2026, to speak up—no cost changes announced yet, but more testing means more safety!
2026-19267, RETC, LLC.: Application for Expansion of Recognition
RETC, LLC. wants to expand its role as a trusted safety tester recognized by OSHA. This means they could test more products to keep workers safe. If you have thoughts or info, speak up by October 6, 2026, so OSHA can consider it before making a final call.
2026-19268, TUV SUD America, Inc.: Application for Expansion of Recognition
TUV SUD America, Inc. wants to expand its official testing powers by adding two new test standards to its recognized list. This change affects companies relying on TUVAM for safety testing and could speed up product approvals. You’ve got until October 6, 2026, to share your thoughts or ask for more time to comment.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-17646, 4,4′-Methylenedianiline Standard for General Industry; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Approval of Information Collection (Paperwork) Requirements
OSHA wants to keep collecting info about how companies handle 4,4′-Methylenedianiline, a chemical used in some workplaces. This extension means businesses must keep following the same paperwork rules for now, with no new costs or changes. Workers and employers in industries using this chemical should stay tuned and keep their records ready.
Next: 2025-17648, Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Notice of Termination, Suspension, Reduction, or Increase in Benefit Payments
The Department of Labor wants to update how it collects info about changes in benefit payments, like when payments stop, pause, go up, or down. This affects workers getting benefits and helps make sure payments are accurate and timely. They’re asking for public feedback before finalizing these updates, so everyone has a chance to weigh in.