Industry Lauds OSHA For Posting Variance Data But Says Numbers Show Inflexible Approach

OSHA has begun publishing data online on regulatory variances it has approved and denied – a move that's generating praise from industry advocates but also criticism from some who argue that the numbers demonstrate an inflexible approach to variances by the agency. The newly posted data show that the majority of variance requests have been denied, and those granted related mostly to use of a rope-guided hoist system as an alternative to fully enclosed hoist towers for work on chimneys. Companies can obtain variances from OSHA regulations under some circumstances if the agency determines that t