NC S502

Codifies the Carolina Star Program within the Department of Labor as a voluntary program to recognize worksites 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 addressing upper management leadership, employee involvement, hazard assessment, prevention and control programs, safety training, annual evaluations, reporting requirements, and conference participation.

Requires workplace applications to be submitted by management with documentation proving compliance with Carolina Star Program standards, and mandates on-site evaluations by Department evaluation teams to determine eligibility.

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

Allows worksites already participating in the uncodified Carolina Star Program prior to July 1, 2017, to continue participation if they meet the newly established requirements and expectations adopted by the Commissioner.