The hardworking men and women of Maine’s state and local government can now breathe a little easier. You see, the U.S. Department of Labor has just given Maine’s State Plan for occupational safety and health the ol’ stamp of approval. And that, my friends, is a big deal.
As of March 21, 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has certified that Maine has put all the necessary pieces in place for its State Plan. The plan has been in development since 2015, and it’s been a long road, but the state’s dedication to keeping its workers safe is truly something to admire.
In the words of Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health, Doug Parker, “Certifying Maine’s State Plan marks a major milestone for the state’s public employees, and for the development of the state’s occupational safety and health program.” He’s right – Maine is now part of a select group of states and territories, like New Jersey, Illinois, Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, and the Virgin Islands, that have safety and health programs specifically for state and local government workers.
So, who does this plan cover? Well, it’s administered by the Maine Department of Labor’s Workplace Safety and Health Division and covers roughly 2,400 employers and 80,000 workers across state, county, and local governments, as well as quasi-municipal agencies. Plus, volunteers working under state or local government employers are covered too.
Now, there are some folks the Maine State Plan doesn’t cover, like federal government workers, U.S. Postal Service employees, and civilian workers on military bases. But fear not – the federal OSHA program has got their backs, along with private sector employees in the state.
The best part? The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 and 29 CFR Part 1956 let states and territories set up plans like this one, and OSHA will cover up to 50% of the program’s costs once it’s approved.
So, hats off to Maine for stepping up to protect its workers.
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