NC H373

Codifies the Carolina Star Program within the Department of Labor as a voluntary program recognizing work sites that implement effective safety and health management systems, encompassing four distinct programs: Carolina Star, Rising Star, Building Star, and Public Sector Star.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Labor to adopt rules governing the Carolina Star Program covering management leadership, employee involvement, hazard assessment, hazard prevention and control, safety training, program evaluation, annual reporting, and participation in regional safety conferences.

Requires workplace management to submit applications with documentation demonstrating compliance with Carolina Star standards, and mandates on-site evaluations by Department evaluation teams to verify compliance.

Exempts participating workplaces from routine inspections under G.S. 95-136, except for inspections arising from complaints, referrals, fatalities, catastrophes, nonfatal accidents, or toxic chemical releases.

Allows workplaces already participating in the uncodified Carolina Star Program prior to July 1, 2017, to continue participation under the new codified program requirements, with the act becoming effective July 1, 2017.