Biden Chooses Steel Worker Safety Official for OSHA Leadership Position

Former United Steelworkers safety official Jim Frederick will act as OSHA’s Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor.

  • By Nikki Johnson-Bolden
  • Jan 22, 2021

Jim Frederick, a former safety official at United Steelworkers, has been named Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA by President Biden, according to Bloomberg Law.

Frederick began serving in this interim position on Jan. 20. He previously served as the assistant health and safety director at United Steelworkers for 24 years. It is reported that Frederick will help steer OSHA into a new direction that prioritizes worker protection.

“There is no stronger advocate for worker safety in this country than Jim Frederick,” said Tom Conway, International President of United Steelworkers. “He brings to OSHA not just a deep commitment to safer workplaces for all Americans, but the expertise and experience to get the job done right.”

The United Steelworkers voiced its approval of Frederick’s appointment as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor, as well as the appointment of Joseph T. Hughes Jr. to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Pandemic and Emergency Response position at OSHA. Hughes’ position could be heavily involved with matters concerning President Biden’s coronavirus relief package, which includes the passing of a COVID-19 protection standard from OSHA.

About the Author

Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.

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