The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), part of the U.S. Department of Labor, published a notice on February 27, 2026, in the Federal Register announcing the application from Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. (ITSNA) to expand its recognition as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). This development involves adding one new test site in Singapore to ITSNA's existing scope, which currently includes 34 recognized facilities. The notice invites public comments until March 16, 2026, and reflects OSHA's preliminary finding to grant the expansion following an on-site assessment. This step is significant because it could broaden ITSNA's global footprint for certifying workplace safety equipment, ensuring compliance with U.S. standards amid increasing international supply chains.
Background on NRTLs and Recognition Process
Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories play a critical role in the U.S. occupational safety framework by independently testing and certifying products to meet OSHA standards. Under 29 CFR 1910.7, OSHA recognizes organizations that demonstrate capability in product safety evaluation, including technical expertise and independence from manufacturers. Recognition allows employers to use NRTL-certified equipment to comply with regulations requiring tested products, such as electrical devices or protective gear.
ITSNA, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois, has been an NRTL since its initial recognition, with a scope covering various product types specified by test standards. The organization's current 34 sites enable it to perform certifications worldwide. This application, submitted on February 14, 2024, seeks to include Intertek Testing Services (Singapore) Pte Ltd., located at No. 5 Pereira Road, #06-01 Asiawide Industrial Building, Singapore 368025. OSHA's process for expansions follows Appendix A to 29 CFR 1910.7, which mandates two Federal Register notices: an initial announcement with preliminary findings and a final decision notice.
Details of the Application and OSHA's Review
ITSNA's application focuses on expanding its NRTL scope to incorporate the Singapore facility for product testing and certification activities. As outlined in the notice, recognition encompasses the types of products testable under applicable standards and the sites capable of performing those functions. The Singapore site would join ITSNA's network, potentially handling certifications for items like electrical equipment or machinery destined for U.S. workplaces.
OSHA conducted an on-site review of the Singapore facility on February 20-21, 2025. Assessors identified some nonconformances with 29 CFR 1910.7 requirements, but ITSNA addressed these issues to OSHA's satisfaction. The notice states, 'OSHA staff has preliminarily determined that OSHA should grant the application,' based on the application file and documentation. This preliminary finding underscores ITSNA's compliance with criteria for independence, capability, and quality control in testing.
Key contacts in the notice include Kevin Robinson, Director of OSHA's Office of Technical Programs and Coordination Activities, for technical inquiries, and Frank Meilinger, Director of OSHA's Office of Communications, for press questions. Comments can be submitted electronically via regulations.gov or through the OSHA Docket Office, with the docket number OSHA-2007-0039.
Key Players and Regulatory Context
OSHA administers the NRTL program under authority from 29 U.S.C. 657(g)(2) and related orders, such as Secretary of Labor's Order No. 7-2025. The program ensures that testing labs maintain high standards, preventing workplace hazards from faulty equipment. ITSNA, a subsidiary of Intertek Group plc, is a major player in the testing, inspection, and certification industry, serving sectors like consumer goods and industrial equipment.
Relevant precedents include prior NRTL expansions, such as those for other labs like UL or TUV, which have added international sites to meet global demand. These cases highlight OSHA's emphasis on consistent application of U.S. standards abroad. Political forces influencing this include bipartisan support for robust workplace safety, with administrations emphasizing regulatory efficiency. For instance, during economic recoveries, expansions like this facilitate trade by ensuring foreign-tested products meet domestic requirements without delays.
Perspectives vary: Industry groups may view this as a boon for efficiency, reducing certification bottlenecks in Asia-Pacific supply chains. Labor advocates might stress the need for rigorous oversight to prevent any dilution of safety standards. OSHA's notice balances these by inviting public input, ensuring transparency.
Implications and Perspectives
In the short term, granting this expansion could streamline certifications for products manufactured or assembled in Asia, benefiting U.S. importers and employers needing compliant equipment quickly. Long-term implications include strengthened global safety networks, potentially influencing international standards harmonization. However, challenges arise if nonconformances recur, risking delays or revocations.
Different viewpoints exist without clear endorsement from OSHA. Manufacturers might appreciate expanded capacity, as noted in similar past applications where added sites reduced wait times. Critics, including some safety experts, could argue for more domestic focus to maintain direct oversight. The notice's emphasis on public participation allows these voices to shape the final decision.
Forward-Looking Considerations
This application highlights ongoing efforts to adapt the NRTL program to a globalized economy while upholding safety. Key takeaways include OSHA's preliminary approval and the call for comments by March 16, 2026. Potential next steps involve reviewing submissions, after which the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, currently Amanda Laihow as Principal Deputy, will decide. If granted, a final Federal Register notice will detail the updated scope.
Future challenges may include ensuring the Singapore site's ongoing compliance amid evolving technologies, such as advanced robotics or renewable energy devices. Debates could center on balancing international expansion with domestic job impacts or the effectiveness of remote oversight. Overall, this process exemplifies OSHA's methodical approach to enhancing workplace safety through certified testing.
