July 29, 2013


RE:	Electrical Work Plan Settlement Agreement between USDOL and the USPS


This letter is to inform U.S. Postal Service (USPS) suppliers of a historic settlement agreement reached between the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the USPS regarding compliance with OSHA’s standards on safe electrical work practices, 29 CFR §§ 1910.331-335. In 2009 and 2010, OSHA issued citations to the USPS for allegedly violating OSHA standards on electrical safe work practices at 42 USPS facilities. The citations alleged that USPS did not provide adequate hazard assessments outlining proper procedures when working on or near energized equipment, including appropriate personal protective equipment, and training.

The settlement agreement was executed on June 28, 2013 and took effect immediately.  This agreement includes a nationwide prioritized hazard abatement (with full abatement within 21 months), electrical work assessments, insulated tools, personal protective equipment, training, labeling and an audit process.  Additionally, OSHA will be visiting USPS facilities to assess completion of the abatement milestones.  Please note that while OSHA is onsite at a USPS facility, any violation seen in plain sight is citable.  

All suppliers and subcontractors are reminded that the terms and conditions of Postal Service contracts require compliance with applicable local, state, and federal requirements for safe electrical work.  Notably, suppliers must comply with the safe electrical work practices under 29 CFR §§ 1910.331-335. 

As a reference, the Settlement Agreement is posted on OSHA’s corporate-wide settlement agreement webpage.  Here is the link to the Agreement and exhibits:

https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=CWSA&p_id=2209

We look forward to continuing to work together to protect our employees, customers and suppliers.

Sincerely,


/s/


Robert J. Brant
United States Postal Service 
Manager Safety & OSHA Compliance Program




475 L’ENFANT PLAZA, SW ROOM 9827
WASHINGTON, DC  20260-6201
TELEPHONE: (202) 268-3690

VISIT US AT  www.usps.com