Explanation
BACKGROUND
This ordinance repeals and replaces Chapters 168 and 169 of the Columbus City Codes to authorize the creation of the Division of the Columbus Occupational Safety and Health Administration (COSHA) within the Department of Human Resources and to revise certain Code provisions pertaining to the Board of Industrial Relations.
COSHA will administer various safety programs for the City of Columbus to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for its employees, in accordance with all Federal, State, and Local regulations. The goals of COSHA are:
(1) to act as a lead agency providing direction to reduce the incidence of occupational injuries and diseases; and
(2) to protect employees against occupational hazards; and
(3) to reduce costs associated with injuries.
COSHA will be made up of two sections, the Occupational Safety and Health section and the Workers' Compensation section. The division will exist within the Department of Human Resources with a separate budget supported by the transfer of funds from the Employee Benefits and General Operating Funds.
FISCAL IMPACT
Initially, there will be no fiscal effect of the passage of this ordinance. The 2026 Operating Budget submission included budgeted expenditures for Dept-Div 4603 (the Columbus Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
Title
To repeal and replace Chapters 168 and 169 of the Columbus City Codes; and to create the Division of the Columbus Occupational Safety and Health Administration (COSHA) within the Department of Human Resources. ($0.00)
Body
WHEREAS, the Department of Human Resources seeks to repeal and replace Chapters 168 and 169 of the Columbus City Code to authorize the creation of the Division of the Columbus Occupational Safety and Health Administration (COSHA) within the Department of Human Resources; and
WHEREAS, COSHA will administer various safety programs for the City of Columbus to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for its employees...
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