Labor Secretary Stresses Prevention to Reduce Worker Injuries

Washington, D.C. -- In a prepared statement before a Labor Department partnership program meeting in New Orleans on Monday, Labor Secretary Elaine Chao announced that she wants more emphasis on reducing workplace injuries through prevention and education, not just enforcement. Chao said she supports making voluntary programs a part of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and would like to expand voluntary program participation. Chao will announce next month whether she'll proceed with a new ergonomics regulation to reduce workplace injuries or institute a voluntary policy.