OSHA Won't Appeal CCP Ruling

"While we have decided not to continue litigation involving the Cooperative Compliance Program, we remain absolutely committed to the principles espoused by CCP: the importance of targeting OSHA's enforcement on high-hazard workplaces, and the value of partnerships with employers in creating safety and health program that make a real difference in reducing illnesses and injuries," said Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman.

CCP offered employers with poor safety records in certain industries -- one of them trucking -- the option of adopting safety and health programs stricter than those required by law in return for a reduced chance of inspection. Companies that declined were guaranteed an inspection.

The U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., halted the program April 19 when it decided that OSHA circumvented the rulemaking process in implementing the cooperative program.