The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is requesting input from the public to determine what changes, if any, to make to its emergency-response and preparedness standards. The National Volunteer Fire Council is reviewing the request and will be submitting comments.

OSHA currently regulates certain aspects of emergency responder health and safety through seven standards. However, OSHA does not maintain a comprehensive emergency responder standard, and many of the existing standards have not been updated in years. OSHA is specifically requesting comment on the scope of emergency response, personal protective equipment, training and qualifications, medical evaluation and health monitoring, safety, and more.

Comments must be submitted by Dec. 10. More Information on the request for public comment can be found online at a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20071800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2007/E7-17771.htm