Abstract

Workplace regulations are typically rigid and detailed, raising costs for business without effectively protecting workers. This article argues for giving employers the option of working with employees to solve their mutual problems. Under this proposal, employers have the option of creating plans that achieve the goals of the regulations. If these plans meet minimum standards, the employer would be exempt from many detailed command-and-control regulations. A key element of this proposal is that the workforce (or its representative) has the authority to ensure that each plan protects the employees.