Insurers challenge new ergonomics injury regulation.(Occupational Safety and Health Administration's ergonomics regulation)(Brief Article)

A dozen insurance companies have challenged the Occupational Safely and Health Administration's ergonomics regulation in federal court--the third major lawsuit filed by business groups over the new workplace requirement.

Insurers allege OSHA exceeded its authority by establishing a federal program for compensating employees who suffer musculoskeletal injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.

This "parallel universe of compensation" threatens the stability of state-based workers' compensation programs, says Bruce Wood, assistant general counsel of the American Insurance Association.

Insurers also say OSHA's new regulation gives …