OSHA Emergency Response Rulemaking

The proposed rule by OSHA released this year with the intention of being finalized in 2025 is part of an effort to update the Emergency Response Standard and aims to improve safety protections for emergency responders, including EMS personnel, firefighters, and search and rescue teams. This rule would revise the existing Fire Brigades Standard (29 C.F.R. 1910.156) to extend its coverage to additional groups of emergency responders, such as those in EMS and technical rescue roles.

Highlights of the proposed rule include:

• Expanded Coverage to include EMS, search, and rescue functions
• Alignment with current safety and operations standards such as those in the National Fire Protection Association
• Enhanced health and safety measures against wildfire and hazardous material exposures
•  Volunteer fire department exemptions and extension of implementation timelines

OSHA Proposed Rule Insights