FROM: U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT
OSHA announces proposed new rule to improve tracking
of workplace injuries and illnesses
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today issued a proposed rule to improve workplace safety and health through improved tracking of workplace injuries and illnesses. The announcement follows the Bureau of Labor Statistics' release of its annual Occupational Injuries and Illnesses report, which estimates that three million workers were injured on the job in 2012.
"Three million injuries are three million too many," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "With the changes being proposed in this rule, employers, employees, the government and researchers will have better access to data that will encourage earlier abatement of hazards and result in improved programs to reduce workplace hazards and prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities. The proposal does not add any new requirement to keep records; it only modifies an employer's obligation to transmit these records to OSHA."
The public will have 90 days, through Feb. 6, 2014, to submit written comments on the proposed rule. On Jan. 9, 2014, OSHA will hold a public meeting on the proposed rule in Washington, D.C. A Federal Register notice announcing the public meeting will be published shortly.
The proposed rule was developed following a series of stakeholder meetings in 2010 to help OSHA gather information about electronic submission of establishment-specific injury and illness data. OSHA is proposing to amend its current recordkeeping regulations to add requirements for the electronic submission of injury and illness information employers are already required to keep under existing standards, Part 1904. The first proposed new requirement is for establishments with more than 250 employees (and who are already required to keep records) to electronically submit the records on a quarterly basis to OSHA.
OSHA is also proposing that establishments with 20 or more employees, in certain industries with high injury and illness rates, be required to submit electronically only their summary of work-related injuries and illnesses to OSHA once a year. Currently, many such firms report this information to OSHA under OSHA's Data Initiative.
OSHA plans to eventually post the data online, as encouraged by President Obama's Open Government Initiative. Timely, establishment-specific injury and illness data will help OSHA target its compliance assistance and enforcement resources more effectively by identifying workplaces where workers are at greater risk, and enable employers to compare their injury rates with others in the same industry. Additional information on the proposed rule can be found at http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?
Showing posts with label OSHA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label OSHA. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
OSHA'S NEWLY PROPOSED RULE REGARDING WORKER EXPOSURE TO CRYSTALLINE SILICA
FROM: U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT
US Department of Labor’s OSHA announces proposed rule to protect workers exposed to crystalline silica
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced a proposed rule aimed at curbing lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in America's workers. The proposal seeks to lower worker exposure to crystalline silica, which kills hundreds of workers and sickens thousands more each year. After publication of the proposal, the public will have 90 days to submit written comments, followed by public hearings.
"Exposure to silica can be deadly, and limiting that exposure is essential," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "Every year, exposed workers not only lose their ability to work, but also to breathe. This proposal is expected to prevent thousands of deaths from silicosis — an incurable and progressive disease — as well as lung cancer, other respiratory diseases and kidney disease. We're looking forward to public comment on the proposal."
Once the full effects of the rule are realized, OSHA estimates that the proposed rule would result in saving nearly 700 lives per year and prevent 1,600 new cases of silicosis annually.
Exposure to airborne silica dust occurs in operations involving cutting, sawing, drilling and crushing of concrete, brick, block and other stone products and in operations using sand products, such as in glass manufacturing, foundries and sand blasting.
The proposal is based on extensive review of scientific and technical evidence, consideration of current industry consensus standards and outreach by OSHA to stakeholders, including public stakeholder meetings, conferences and meetings with employer and employee organizations.
"The proposed rule uses common sense measures that will protect workers' lives and lungs — like keeping the material wet so dust doesn't become airborne," added Michaels. "It is designed to give employers flexibility in selecting ways to meet the standard."
The proposed rulemaking includes two separate standards — one for general industry and maritime employment, and one for construction.
The agency currently enforces 40-year-old permissible exposure limits (PELs) for crystalline silica in general industry, construction and shipyards that are outdated, inconsistent between industries and do not adequately protect worker health. The proposed rule brings protections into the 21st century.
The proposed rule includes a new exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica and details widely used methods for controlling worker exposure, conducting medical surveillance, training workers about silica-related hazards and recordkeeping measures.
OSHA rulemaking relies heavily on input from the public and the agency will conduct extensive engagement to garner feedback from the public through both written and oral comments. OSHA will accept public comments on the proposed rule for 90 days following publication in the Federal Register, followed by public hearings. Once public hearings conclude, members of the public who filed a notice of intention to appear can then submit additional post-hearing comments.
US Department of Labor’s OSHA announces proposed rule to protect workers exposed to crystalline silica
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced a proposed rule aimed at curbing lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in America's workers. The proposal seeks to lower worker exposure to crystalline silica, which kills hundreds of workers and sickens thousands more each year. After publication of the proposal, the public will have 90 days to submit written comments, followed by public hearings.
"Exposure to silica can be deadly, and limiting that exposure is essential," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "Every year, exposed workers not only lose their ability to work, but also to breathe. This proposal is expected to prevent thousands of deaths from silicosis — an incurable and progressive disease — as well as lung cancer, other respiratory diseases and kidney disease. We're looking forward to public comment on the proposal."
Once the full effects of the rule are realized, OSHA estimates that the proposed rule would result in saving nearly 700 lives per year and prevent 1,600 new cases of silicosis annually.
Exposure to airborne silica dust occurs in operations involving cutting, sawing, drilling and crushing of concrete, brick, block and other stone products and in operations using sand products, such as in glass manufacturing, foundries and sand blasting.
The proposal is based on extensive review of scientific and technical evidence, consideration of current industry consensus standards and outreach by OSHA to stakeholders, including public stakeholder meetings, conferences and meetings with employer and employee organizations.
"The proposed rule uses common sense measures that will protect workers' lives and lungs — like keeping the material wet so dust doesn't become airborne," added Michaels. "It is designed to give employers flexibility in selecting ways to meet the standard."
The proposed rulemaking includes two separate standards — one for general industry and maritime employment, and one for construction.
The agency currently enforces 40-year-old permissible exposure limits (PELs) for crystalline silica in general industry, construction and shipyards that are outdated, inconsistent between industries and do not adequately protect worker health. The proposed rule brings protections into the 21st century.
The proposed rule includes a new exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica and details widely used methods for controlling worker exposure, conducting medical surveillance, training workers about silica-related hazards and recordkeeping measures.
OSHA rulemaking relies heavily on input from the public and the agency will conduct extensive engagement to garner feedback from the public through both written and oral comments. OSHA will accept public comments on the proposed rule for 90 days following publication in the Federal Register, followed by public hearings. Once public hearings conclude, members of the public who filed a notice of intention to appear can then submit additional post-hearing comments.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
OSHA STANDARD MEETS MSHA'S STANDARD
FROM: U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT
MSHA clarifies that OSHA's hazard communication standard meets requirements of MSHA's HazCom standard
ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration today issued guidance to the mining industry to clarify that mine operators who meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's hazard communication standard will be in compliance with MSHA's hazard communication standard. The guidance, in a program policy letter, reflects MSHA's understanding that many mine operators are meeting OSHA's HazCom standard.
OSHA recently published an update to its Hazard Communication Standard, incorporating the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Major changes to OSHA's HazCom standard include a new system of classifying types and degrees of hazards, changes to labeling requirements and changes to the Safety Data Sheet, formerly called the Material Safety Data Sheet.
"MSHA policy being issued today clarifies that compliance with OSHA's HazCom rule meets the requirements of MSHA's HazCom rule," said Joseph A. Main, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health. "We recognize that many mines already receive safety data sheets and labels for hazardous chemicals that are developed in accordance with OSHA's revised standard. We also recognize that mine operators may be required to develop safety data sheets and labels compliant with OSHA's standard in order to transport, import or export hazardous chemicals because of the transition to the global classification and labeling system.
"This compatibility is a win-win: it reduces the burden of maintaining two separate systems for identifying hazardous chemicals and communication of hazards while providing at least the same protections to miners as MSHA's existing HazCom standard. A single system will also promote consistency with other industries and federal agencies with respect to identification and communication of hazards," said Main.
Title 30, Part 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations requires mine operators to develop, implement, and maintain a written HazCom program. Operators must identify chemicals, make a hazard determination, ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals have labels, have and make available a data sheet for each hazardous chemical used or produced at the mine; and instruct miners on the physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the miners' work area, protective measures, and contents of the HazCom program.
While OSHA's HazCom standard is compatible with MSHA's, some aspects of OSHA's hazard classification may not be compatible with other existing MSHA standards, such as storage requirements for hazardous chemicals. Mine operators must comply with all existing MSHA standards concerning hazardous chemicals.
Under MSHA's HazCom standard, operators are required to train miners on the contents of the mine's HazCom program. Operators must describe in their written HazCom programs the HazCom practices in place at the mine, including practices for hazard determination, labels, and safety data sheets. For this reason, if operators choose to incorporate OSHA's updated HazCom rule, they also must update their written HazCom programs and conduct miner training on the new system.
MSHA clarifies that OSHA's hazard communication standard meets requirements of MSHA's HazCom standard
ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration today issued guidance to the mining industry to clarify that mine operators who meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's hazard communication standard will be in compliance with MSHA's hazard communication standard. The guidance, in a program policy letter, reflects MSHA's understanding that many mine operators are meeting OSHA's HazCom standard.
OSHA recently published an update to its Hazard Communication Standard, incorporating the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Major changes to OSHA's HazCom standard include a new system of classifying types and degrees of hazards, changes to labeling requirements and changes to the Safety Data Sheet, formerly called the Material Safety Data Sheet.
"MSHA policy being issued today clarifies that compliance with OSHA's HazCom rule meets the requirements of MSHA's HazCom rule," said Joseph A. Main, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health. "We recognize that many mines already receive safety data sheets and labels for hazardous chemicals that are developed in accordance with OSHA's revised standard. We also recognize that mine operators may be required to develop safety data sheets and labels compliant with OSHA's standard in order to transport, import or export hazardous chemicals because of the transition to the global classification and labeling system.
"This compatibility is a win-win: it reduces the burden of maintaining two separate systems for identifying hazardous chemicals and communication of hazards while providing at least the same protections to miners as MSHA's existing HazCom standard. A single system will also promote consistency with other industries and federal agencies with respect to identification and communication of hazards," said Main.
Title 30, Part 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations requires mine operators to develop, implement, and maintain a written HazCom program. Operators must identify chemicals, make a hazard determination, ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals have labels, have and make available a data sheet for each hazardous chemical used or produced at the mine; and instruct miners on the physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the miners' work area, protective measures, and contents of the HazCom program.
While OSHA's HazCom standard is compatible with MSHA's, some aspects of OSHA's hazard classification may not be compatible with other existing MSHA standards, such as storage requirements for hazardous chemicals. Mine operators must comply with all existing MSHA standards concerning hazardous chemicals.
Under MSHA's HazCom standard, operators are required to train miners on the contents of the mine's HazCom program. Operators must describe in their written HazCom programs the HazCom practices in place at the mine, including practices for hazard determination, labels, and safety data sheets. For this reason, if operators choose to incorporate OSHA's updated HazCom rule, they also must update their written HazCom programs and conduct miner training on the new system.
Monday, August 5, 2013
OSHA, NIOSH ISSUE HAZARD ALERT ON 1-BROMOPROPANE USED IN DEGREASING OPERATIONS
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
OSHA and NIOSH issue hazard alert on 1-bromopropane, urge efforts to safeguard workers from exposure to toxic chemical
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health today issued a hazard alert to urge employers that use 1-bromopropane (1-BP) to take appropriate steps to protect workers from exposure.
"The use of 1-bromopropane has increased in workplaces over the last 20 years," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "Workers exposed to this toxic chemical can suffer serious health effects, even long after exposure has ended. Hazardous exposure to 1-BP must be prevented. Employers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their workers."
Exposure to 1-BP has been associated with damage to the nervous system among workers, and it has been shown to cause reproductive harm in animal studies. The chemical is used in degreasing operations, furniture manufacturing, and dry cleaning. The hazard alert was issued in response to information on the increased use of 1-BP as a substitute for other solvents as well as recent reports of overexposure in furniture manufacturing. 1-BP was nominated as a chemical of concern in OSHA's Web Forum to Identify Hazardous Chemicals.
Workers can be exposed to 1-BP by breathing in vapors or spray mists and by absorption through the skin. The most effective way to protect workers from exposure is to eliminate the use of 1-BP, substituting the chemical with a less toxic substance or less hazardous material. Replacement chemicals also may have associated hazards that need to be considered and controlled.
Engineering controls to reduce worker exposure to 1-BP include isolation of workplace operations and the installation of proper ventilation systems. Other controls, such as a reduction in the time a worker is exposed to the chemical, should also be considered.
The hazard alert can be viewed at: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_3676.pdf
OSHA and NIOSH issue hazard alert on 1-bromopropane, urge efforts to safeguard workers from exposure to toxic chemical
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health today issued a hazard alert to urge employers that use 1-bromopropane (1-BP) to take appropriate steps to protect workers from exposure.
"The use of 1-bromopropane has increased in workplaces over the last 20 years," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "Workers exposed to this toxic chemical can suffer serious health effects, even long after exposure has ended. Hazardous exposure to 1-BP must be prevented. Employers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their workers."
Exposure to 1-BP has been associated with damage to the nervous system among workers, and it has been shown to cause reproductive harm in animal studies. The chemical is used in degreasing operations, furniture manufacturing, and dry cleaning. The hazard alert was issued in response to information on the increased use of 1-BP as a substitute for other solvents as well as recent reports of overexposure in furniture manufacturing. 1-BP was nominated as a chemical of concern in OSHA's Web Forum to Identify Hazardous Chemicals.
Workers can be exposed to 1-BP by breathing in vapors or spray mists and by absorption through the skin. The most effective way to protect workers from exposure is to eliminate the use of 1-BP, substituting the chemical with a less toxic substance or less hazardous material. Replacement chemicals also may have associated hazards that need to be considered and controlled.
Engineering controls to reduce worker exposure to 1-BP include isolation of workplace operations and the installation of proper ventilation systems. Other controls, such as a reduction in the time a worker is exposed to the chemical, should also be considered.
The hazard alert can be viewed at: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_3676.pdf
Saturday, August 3, 2013
MANUFACTURER TO PAY FINES OF $128,700 AFTER EXPLOSION INJURES THREE WORKERS
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
IVEX Protective Packaging issued 21 safety citations following OSHA
investigation into January explosion at Sidney, Ohio, manufacturing plant
SIDNEY, Ohio – IVEX Protective Packaging Inc. has been cited by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration with 21 safety violations carrying fines of $128,700. OSHA's January inspection followed an explosion that resulted in the injury of three workers and significant property damage at the Sidney polyethylene foam product manufacturing facility.
The explosion occurred when isobutane gas entered exhaust ductwork associated with the foam extrusion manufacturing process, and it was ignited by the regenerative thermal oxidizer. When OSHA inspected the facility, it found multiple violations of OSHA's standards for process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals.
"By disregarding OSHA's standards for developing safety procedures and training workers on the consequence of a lack of engineering controls or deviation from operating limits, this employer endangered its workers," said Kim Nelson, OSHA's area director in Toledo. "OSHA is committed to protecting workers on the job, especially those exposed to hazardous materials, and educating employers about safety and health regulations."
Seventeen serious violations related to Process Safety Management include failing to address fire and explosion hazards within ventilation ducting, process equipment and pressure vessels through accurate process safety information, This includes documentation showing that all covered equipment complies with generally accepted engineering practices and has a completed process hazard analysis. The company also failed to have detailed operating procedures, provide operator and maintenance technician training and develop an inspection and testing program.
The company's four additional serious violations include a lack of machine guarding, failing to document specific hazardous energy control procedures, not applying lockout devices to machinery during servicing, failing to shut down machinery prior to servicing and not providing flame-retardant clothing for workers exposed to fire/explosion hazards. A serious violation occurs when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.
IVEX Protective Packaging issued 21 safety citations following OSHA
investigation into January explosion at Sidney, Ohio, manufacturing plant
SIDNEY, Ohio – IVEX Protective Packaging Inc. has been cited by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration with 21 safety violations carrying fines of $128,700. OSHA's January inspection followed an explosion that resulted in the injury of three workers and significant property damage at the Sidney polyethylene foam product manufacturing facility.
The explosion occurred when isobutane gas entered exhaust ductwork associated with the foam extrusion manufacturing process, and it was ignited by the regenerative thermal oxidizer. When OSHA inspected the facility, it found multiple violations of OSHA's standards for process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals.
"By disregarding OSHA's standards for developing safety procedures and training workers on the consequence of a lack of engineering controls or deviation from operating limits, this employer endangered its workers," said Kim Nelson, OSHA's area director in Toledo. "OSHA is committed to protecting workers on the job, especially those exposed to hazardous materials, and educating employers about safety and health regulations."
Seventeen serious violations related to Process Safety Management include failing to address fire and explosion hazards within ventilation ducting, process equipment and pressure vessels through accurate process safety information, This includes documentation showing that all covered equipment complies with generally accepted engineering practices and has a completed process hazard analysis. The company also failed to have detailed operating procedures, provide operator and maintenance technician training and develop an inspection and testing program.
The company's four additional serious violations include a lack of machine guarding, failing to document specific hazardous energy control procedures, not applying lockout devices to machinery during servicing, failing to shut down machinery prior to servicing and not providing flame-retardant clothing for workers exposed to fire/explosion hazards. A serious violation occurs when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR SETTLES WITH U.S.P.S. REGARDING OSHA VIOLATIONS
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
US Department of Labor and US Postal Service agree to terms on improving worker safety at postal facilities
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the U.S. Postal Service and the American Postal Workers Union have agreed to terms of a settlement that will improve safety in postal facilities across the country. The settlement follows negotiations stemming from inspections at 42 Postal Service sites in 2009 and 2010 that found violations of OSHA standards on electrical work practices. USPS contested the citations, and OSHA then sought enterprise-wide relief before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
"As a large employer, with a substantial number of affected employees throughout many different types of facilities, the U.S. Postal Service faced many challenges in improving their electrical safe-work program," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "In entering this agreement, OSHA recognizes the Postal Service's commitment and dedication to worker safety."
As part of the settlement, which covers all Postal Service facilities nationwide, including processing and distribution centers and post offices, USPS has revised its written policies and procedures on electrical work, prohibiting workers from working on electrically energized equipment except for a defined set of tasks that can only be performed while equipment is energized, such as troubleshooting and testing. To ensure compliance with these electrical safety policies, USPS will assign a trained electrical work plan coordinator at each facility. In addition, USPS will provide and require the use of electrically protective gloves and full body arc flash protection for energized work, including voltage testing.
"Employee safety has always been a top priority for the Postal Service," said Jeffrey Williamson, USPS chief human resources officer and executive vice president. "We are happy to have resolved this issue amicably and in the best interests of the safety of our employees."
USPS has also agreed to audit the implementation of the electrical safe-work program at all maintenance-capable facilities, and report the results in detail to OSHA quarterly during the two-year term of the agreement. In addition, OSHA will meet with the Postal Service on a regular basis to discuss the results of OSHA monitoring inspections and USPS audits, as well as any concerns or problems encountered. Also, USPS will retrain all employees performing electrical work to comply with OSHA requirements for electrical work. Supervisors and affected employees also will receive additional training on electrical safe-work practices.
Cliff Guffey, president of the American Postal Workers Union, AFL-CIO, said, "The APWU is pleased to be a part of this landmark commitment to worker safety, which will ensure the protection of postal workers from electrical hazards."
Under the settlement, the Postal Service has agreed to pay $100,000 at signing and a suspended payment of $3 million pending full abatement of the hazards. OSHA will monitor the Postal Service's progress toward abatement and evaluate that progress against negotiated milestones.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.
US Department of Labor and US Postal Service agree to terms on improving worker safety at postal facilities
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the U.S. Postal Service and the American Postal Workers Union have agreed to terms of a settlement that will improve safety in postal facilities across the country. The settlement follows negotiations stemming from inspections at 42 Postal Service sites in 2009 and 2010 that found violations of OSHA standards on electrical work practices. USPS contested the citations, and OSHA then sought enterprise-wide relief before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
"As a large employer, with a substantial number of affected employees throughout many different types of facilities, the U.S. Postal Service faced many challenges in improving their electrical safe-work program," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "In entering this agreement, OSHA recognizes the Postal Service's commitment and dedication to worker safety."
As part of the settlement, which covers all Postal Service facilities nationwide, including processing and distribution centers and post offices, USPS has revised its written policies and procedures on electrical work, prohibiting workers from working on electrically energized equipment except for a defined set of tasks that can only be performed while equipment is energized, such as troubleshooting and testing. To ensure compliance with these electrical safety policies, USPS will assign a trained electrical work plan coordinator at each facility. In addition, USPS will provide and require the use of electrically protective gloves and full body arc flash protection for energized work, including voltage testing.
"Employee safety has always been a top priority for the Postal Service," said Jeffrey Williamson, USPS chief human resources officer and executive vice president. "We are happy to have resolved this issue amicably and in the best interests of the safety of our employees."
USPS has also agreed to audit the implementation of the electrical safe-work program at all maintenance-capable facilities, and report the results in detail to OSHA quarterly during the two-year term of the agreement. In addition, OSHA will meet with the Postal Service on a regular basis to discuss the results of OSHA monitoring inspections and USPS audits, as well as any concerns or problems encountered. Also, USPS will retrain all employees performing electrical work to comply with OSHA requirements for electrical work. Supervisors and affected employees also will receive additional training on electrical safe-work practices.
Cliff Guffey, president of the American Postal Workers Union, AFL-CIO, said, "The APWU is pleased to be a part of this landmark commitment to worker safety, which will ensure the protection of postal workers from electrical hazards."
Under the settlement, the Postal Service has agreed to pay $100,000 at signing and a suspended payment of $3 million pending full abatement of the hazards. OSHA will monitor the Postal Service's progress toward abatement and evaluate that progress against negotiated milestones.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.
Friday, June 28, 2013
OSHA URGES FIREWORKS SAFTEY AWARENESS OVER 4TH OF JULY HOLIDAY
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
OSHA urges increased safety awareness in fireworks industry in advance of July 4 celebrations
WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is urging the fireworks and pyrotechnics industry to be vigilant in protecting workers from hazards while manufacturing, storing, transporting, displaying and selling fireworks for public events.
"As we look forward to July 4 celebrations with fireworks and festivities, we must also consider the safety of workers who handle pyrotechnics," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "Employers are responsible for keeping everyone safe on the job and taking appropriate measures to protect workers from serious injuries or death."
In March 2012, three workers suffered serious burns caused by an explosion at Global Pyrotechnic Solutions Inc. OSHA cited the Dittmer, Mo., company nearly $117,000 for safety violations relating to explosive hazards.
OSHA's pyrotechnics directive, Compliance Policy for Manufacture, Storage, Sale, Handling, Use and Display of Pyrotechnics, provides inspection guidance and OSHA requirements as they apply to pyrotechnics facilities and operations
OSHA urges increased safety awareness in fireworks industry in advance of July 4 celebrations
WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is urging the fireworks and pyrotechnics industry to be vigilant in protecting workers from hazards while manufacturing, storing, transporting, displaying and selling fireworks for public events.
"As we look forward to July 4 celebrations with fireworks and festivities, we must also consider the safety of workers who handle pyrotechnics," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "Employers are responsible for keeping everyone safe on the job and taking appropriate measures to protect workers from serious injuries or death."
In March 2012, three workers suffered serious burns caused by an explosion at Global Pyrotechnic Solutions Inc. OSHA cited the Dittmer, Mo., company nearly $117,000 for safety violations relating to explosive hazards.
OSHA's pyrotechnics directive, Compliance Policy for Manufacture, Storage, Sale, Handling, Use and Display of Pyrotechnics, provides inspection guidance and OSHA requirements as they apply to pyrotechnics facilities and operations
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
U.S.-HONDURAS SIGN AGREEMENT TO PROTECT MIGRANT WORKERS
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
US Labor Department and consulate general of Honduras sign agreement to protect the rights of Honduran national migrant workers
Agreement covers Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri
NUEVA ORLEANS — The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division and the consulate general of Honduras today in New Orleans signed an agreement of understanding to combine resources and coordinate efforts to inform employers about the laws enforced by the department and to educate Honduran nationals working in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri about their rights under United States law.
The signing ceremony took place at the Honduran consulate's New Orleans office at One Canal Place. As part of the agreement, the division will provide training for consulate staff to ensure they have a working knowledge of statutes enforced by the division, including the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act and its child labor provisions, the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act, the field sanitation standards under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the temporary nonimmigrant agricultural guest-worker (H-2A) program under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for us and the Honduran consulate to promote compliance with wage and hour laws," said Cynthia Watson, regional administrator for the Wage and Hour Division in the Southwest. "Today, through our efforts, workers will be educated on their rights under Wage and Hour laws and be assured that they are fully protected under all its statutes."
US Labor Department and consulate general of Honduras sign agreement to protect the rights of Honduran national migrant workers
Agreement covers Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri
NUEVA ORLEANS — The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division and the consulate general of Honduras today in New Orleans signed an agreement of understanding to combine resources and coordinate efforts to inform employers about the laws enforced by the department and to educate Honduran nationals working in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri about their rights under United States law.
The signing ceremony took place at the Honduran consulate's New Orleans office at One Canal Place. As part of the agreement, the division will provide training for consulate staff to ensure they have a working knowledge of statutes enforced by the division, including the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act and its child labor provisions, the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act, the field sanitation standards under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the temporary nonimmigrant agricultural guest-worker (H-2A) program under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for us and the Honduran consulate to promote compliance with wage and hour laws," said Cynthia Watson, regional administrator for the Wage and Hour Division in the Southwest. "Today, through our efforts, workers will be educated on their rights under Wage and Hour laws and be assured that they are fully protected under all its statutes."
Saturday, December 29, 2012
OSHA CITES POST OFFICE FOR HEAT-RELATED DEATH
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Dec. 17, 2012
US Labor Department's OSHA cites US Postal Service
for worker's heat-related death in Independence, Mo.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited the U.S. Postal Service Truman Station in Independence, Mo., with a willful violation for failing to protect employees working in excessive heat. OSHA initiated an inspection in July after a mail carrier developed heat-related illness symptoms, collapsed while working his route and was taken to the hospital where he died as a result of his exposure to excessive heat.
"This tragedy underscores the need for employers to take proactive steps to keep workers safe in extreme heat," said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City. "If this employer had trained workers in recognizing the symptoms of heat stroke, and taken precautions to ensure workers had access to water, rest and shade, this unfortunate incident may have been avoided."
The willful violation addresses the hazard of multiple employees who were required to work during periods when excessive heat advisories and warnings were issued by the National Weather Service. The employer did not have procedures in place to address worker concerns during times of excessive heat. A willful violation is one committed with intentional, knowing or voluntary disregard for the law's requirements, or with plain indifference to worker safety and health.
Penalties of $70,000 have been proposed. The Postal Service has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director in Kansas City, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.
Dec. 17, 2012
US Labor Department's OSHA cites US Postal Service
for worker's heat-related death in Independence, Mo.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited the U.S. Postal Service Truman Station in Independence, Mo., with a willful violation for failing to protect employees working in excessive heat. OSHA initiated an inspection in July after a mail carrier developed heat-related illness symptoms, collapsed while working his route and was taken to the hospital where he died as a result of his exposure to excessive heat.
"This tragedy underscores the need for employers to take proactive steps to keep workers safe in extreme heat," said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City. "If this employer had trained workers in recognizing the symptoms of heat stroke, and taken precautions to ensure workers had access to water, rest and shade, this unfortunate incident may have been avoided."
The willful violation addresses the hazard of multiple employees who were required to work during periods when excessive heat advisories and warnings were issued by the National Weather Service. The employer did not have procedures in place to address worker concerns during times of excessive heat. A willful violation is one committed with intentional, knowing or voluntary disregard for the law's requirements, or with plain indifference to worker safety and health.
Penalties of $70,000 have been proposed. The Postal Service has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director in Kansas City, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
WORKERS' MEMORIAL DAY
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Statement by Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on Workers’ Memorial Day
WASHINGTON — Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement on the observance of Workers' Memorial Day:
"Tomorrow, April 28, is Workers' Memorial Day, an occasion for reflection and remembrance of the thousands of workers who needlessly have suffered fatal injuries on the job every year. We also think of those workers who have been seriously injured or sickened as a result of preventable workplace hazards.
"We are never prepared to say goodbye to the people we love, but we are even less so when we send our loved ones off for a day's work. It is our duty to ensure that all workers come home safely at the end of each workday, and we stand behind our firm conviction that workplace injuries and fatalities are entirely preventable.
"On this day, I urge all Americans to raise their voices in support of workers' right to a safe and healthful workplace. In the 41 years since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was enacted, we have made tremendous progress, but our steadfast mission to make every job in America a safe job must continue. One workplace death is too many.
"Making a living shouldn't include dying."
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