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New hope on ergonomics regulation

Opponents of the new ergonomic standard, published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the waning weeks of the Clinton Administration are hoping that it can be moderated or even reversed with President George W.

Bush in the White House. Their three-pronged strategy includes requests for a re-evaluation of the standard by the new Secretary of Labor, several lawsuits already filed in district courts, and, if all else fails, an effort to have the new Congress pass legislation that would essentially nullify the rule. Opponents acknowledge, however, that overturning an existing rule is always more difficult than preventing its publication. Tim Hammonds, president of the Food Marketing Institute, cites a regulation that prohibits grocery bags from weighing more than 15 lb as an example of the standard’s impact. At the least, scales would be required at checkouts, he says. But, he says, that doesn’t solve the problem of what to do with a 20-lb turkey.

Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
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Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
List: Digitalization Companies From PACK EXPO
Looking for CPG-focused digital transformation solutions? Download our editor-curated list from PACK EXPO featuring top companies offering warehouse management, ERP, digital twin, and MES software with supply chain visibility and analytics capabilities—all tailored specifically for CPG operations.
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List: Digitalization Companies From PACK EXPO