UL LLC Seeks Bigger Role in Worker Safety Certifications

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: 2026-03140, Notice of Request for Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection

The USDA’s Rural Utilities Service wants to keep collecting info for its Broadband Technical Assistance Program, which helps bring internet to rural areas. They’re asking for your thoughts by April 20, 2026, to make sure the process is easy and useful. This extension won’t cost extra but keeps the program running smoothly for communities that need better broadband.

Next: 2026-03142, Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Cadmium in Construction Standard

The Department of Labor is asking for public feedback on its plan to keep track of how much cadmium workers in construction are exposed to. Employers must monitor exposure, provide health check-ups, and keep records to protect workers from harm. Comments are open until March 20, 2026, and this process helps make sure the rules are clear and not too costly.