N.J. Stat. § 34:6A-23
The commissioner shall have the power and authority to grant exceptions from the literal requirements of rules and regulations promulgated under this act. Such exception shall be granted in any particular case only where it is clearly evident that it is necessary to prevent undue hardship or where existing conditions prevent compliance. In no case shall any exception be granted unless in the opinion of the commissioner reasonable protection of the health and safety of workers and the public will be maintained thereby. An application for an exception shall be filed in writing with the commissioner, setting forth specifically the requirements of the rules and regulations from which an exception is desired and the reason why enforcement of the applicable provisions of the rules and regulations is unreasonable. The commissioner shall grant or deny the exception within 30 days from the date of receipt by him of the application. The commissioner shall maintain a record of all exceptions granted and shall make such record reasonably available for public examination and shall mail a copy of all rulings granting exceptions to the members of the board.
N.J.S. § 34:6A-23