Joel Hefley: “Joe Dear, the head of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently testified before Congress that…”

“Joe Dear, the head of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently testified before Congress that virtually all of the stories being told about OSHA--stories about OSHA outlawing the Tooth Fairy, prohibiting chewing gum on roofs, and fining employers for hazardous dishwashing detergents--are false. Having focused on OSHA issues for years I find, the only thing false about these stories is their distortion by people who support OSHA. Let us look at the facts. Specifically, Mr. Dear told the committee, ``OSHA does not require material data safety sheets for the normal use of consumer products like Joy.'' I have a $2,500 citation and notification of penalty from OSHA, issued just last year, which states, ``The company did not have a written hazard communication program. The primary chemicals used are used in the kitchen and bathroom areas. Chemicals used, but not limited to: automatic dishwashing detergent and bleach.'' This is not the first time OSHA has cited a small business for failing to have a MSDS sheet on ordinary household products. Contrary to Mr. Dear's assertion, it has happened more than once.”