The Division has not carried out its statutory mandate to ensure that private sector employers implement safety programs and committees. However, this mandate appears to be unworkable and may not result in the best use of state funds.
As an alternative to enforcing this requirement, the Division provides voluntary consultation services to private sector employers. However, this activity duplicates services provided by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and workers' compensation insurance carriers. Due to a lack of outcome measures, the Division cannot show that its alternative provides a benefit in improving workplace safety.
Unless the Division can develop a viable alternative that results in a better use of state resources, the Legislature should eliminate funding for the Division's State Consultation services, which would save $1.4 million.

Progress Report: The Workers' Compensation Program Makes Progress by Implementing Recommendations
Report 01-15 March 2001
Justification Review for the Safety and Workers' Compensation Program
Report 98-76 March 1999
PB2 Performance Report for the Safety & Workers' Compensation Program
Report 98-48 February 1999

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.