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Contractor Prequalification Bill Backed by ASSE in Maryland
ASSE and its members in Maryland expressed support for a bill (HB 1486) that would require the Maryland Department of Labor to develop and adopt a safety questionnaire and a safety rating system for the state’s public sector employers to use to help ensure that bidders for public sector construction projects can demonstrate a commitment to worker
ASSE Florida Members Back Legislative Effort to Ban Texting
Inspired by fellow ASSE members’ effort to ban texting in Arizona, Florida’s ASSE members have joined in an effort to pass legislation that would ban texting in their state.
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AZ Texting Ban Bill Sponsor Speaks Eloquently in Face of Defeat
Facing certain defeat on the Arizona Senate floor, Senator Steve Farley still spoke with eloquence and calm determination in support of an amendment that would move forward his bill (SB1218) to ban texting in the state. Senator Farley’s defense of the effort and the debate against it was captured YouTube.
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OSHA Alliance Publication Recognizes ASSE and Members for Sandy Help
The following article appeared in the March 2013 issue of the Alliance Quarterly Review, a publication of OSHA’s Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs.
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ASSE at OSHA Stakeholder Meetings on Backing
On February 5, ASSE member Odean Slaton represented ASSE at OSHA’s stakeholder meeting on the issue of backing that was held in Arlington, Texas. The report from that meeting and a previous meeting in Washington, DC, is now available at http://www.osha.gov/doc/topics/backover/otherresources.html.
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OSH Political Season Begins in DC
The political season for occupational safety and health has begun, as uncertainty over how long the impact of sequestration on safety and health-related agency budgets continues. The current effort to reform the OSH Act and Mine Act are summarized below by ASSE’s Federal Representative, Adele Abrams, Esq.
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NIOSH Announces New Lead for PtD Program
The PtD Program is a key safety initiative of NIOSH. A variety of ASSE members were involved in its beginnings and continue to support its efforts. More information on the program can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/ptd/
From Paul A.
Read more >
OSHA and NIOSH April 10 Free Webinar on Preventing Deadly Falls in Construction
From OSHA and NIOSH –
At 11 a.m. EST on April 10, OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the National Occupational Research Agenda Construction Sector Council will co-moderate a free webinar on preventing deadly falls in construction.
Read more >
NIOSH Blogs Michigan Research on Amputations
NIOSH’s Science Blog (http://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2013/03/amputations/) has reported on research from Michigan State
University and the Michigan Department of Community Health on work-related
amputations.
Read more >
New OSHA Resource to Protect Emergency Workers at Combustible Dust Fires
From OSHA –
April 1, 2013
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today
published Firefighting Precautions at Facilities with Combustible Dust*, a new, informative booklet that outlines safe procedures for emergency responders who may face fires and explosions caused by combustible dust.
Read more >
OSHA Launches Young Worker Resources
From OSHA Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs –
OSHA has launched a focused effort to raise awareness about new resources for young worker safety and health. Young workers are a vulnerable population.
Read more >
CSB Holding April 24 Public Meeting on Fatigue Prevention in Oil and Gas, Seeks Comments
From CSB –
March 18, 2013
Washington, DC, March 18, 2013 – Today the U.S.
Read more >
OSHA Publishes White Paper on Severe Violator Program
OSHA has made available its own white paper (http://www.osha.gov/dep/enforcement/svep_white_paper.
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OSHA Revokes Obsolete Variances for Cylindrical Steel Tanks
OSHA has published a notice revoking 24 obsolete variances it granted between 1975 and 1977 to 24 companies engaged in the construction of cylindrical steel tanks.
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PHMSA Finalizes Amendments to HazMat Rule
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has amended its Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to make miscellaneous amendments to update and clarify certain regulatory requirements.
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PHMSA Advisory on Unauthorized Marking of Compressed Gas Cylinders
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a Safety Advisory Notice advising that it has confirmed the marking, service and/or sale of certain high pressure DOT specification cylinders marked with a requalification identification number (RIN) without performing a valid hydrostatic
requalification test.
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PHMSA Incident and Accident Reports Available Online
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a notice of the online availability of revised forms PHMSA F 7100.2—Incident Report–Natural and Other Gas Transmission and Gathering Pipeline Systems and PHMSA F 7000-1–Accident Report–Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Systems.
Read more >
Free GHS Webinar for OSHA Alliance Participants
From OSHA, with which ASSE has an Alliance –
Subject: Invitation to attend OSHA Hazard Communication Standard 2012 Webinar “GHS and the US Manufacturer” – Wednesday, April 10, 2013.
Read more >
GAO Stuff
Consumer Product Safety Commission: Awareness, Use, and Usefulness of SaferProducts.gov. GAO-13-306, March 11. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-13-306 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/652918.
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Updating Consensus Standards is Focus of ASSE Comment on OSHA SIP 4 Request for Info
ASSE provided comments for the record of OSHA’s Standards Improvement Project – Phase IV Request for Information based significantly on its role as Secretariat to the ANSI-accredited A10 Committee for Construction and Demolition Operations and the ANSI/ASSE Z9 Committee for Health and Safety Standards for Ventilation Systems.
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Arizona ASSE Members Back Texting Ban Bill
On behalf of its nearly 600 Arizona members, ASSE voiced support for a bill (SB1218) by Senator SteveFarley to prohibit text messaging while operating a motor vehicle in Arizona.
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MSHA Issues POV Final Rule
MSHA has revised its regulation for pattern of violations (POV). According to MSHA, “The final rule simplifies the existing POV criteria, improves consistency in applying the POV criteria, and more effectively achieves the Mine Act’s statutory intent.
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ACCSH Special Meeting on Construction Signs Proposed Rule and Cranes Tech Amendments
OSHA has announced that its Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) will hold a special meeting March 18, 2013, in Washington, DC, to consider a proposed rule to update OSHA’s standard on Accident Prevention Signs and Tags in construction and proposed technical amendments and corrections to the Cranes and Derricks standar
OSHA Rulemaking on Affordable Care Act Whistleblower Procedures
OSHA has published interim final and seeks comments on regulations governing employee protection (whistleblower) provisions of the Affordable Care Act, giving protections to employees of health insurance issuers or other employers who may have been subject to retaliation for reporting potential violations of the law’s consumer protections (e.
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OSHA Releases 2013 Targeted Inspection Plan to Protect Federal Workers
From OSHA –
Jan. 24, 2013
WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued its annual inspection plan of federal agency establishments under its Federal Agency Targeting Inspection Program directive for fiscal year 2013.
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NIOSH Seeks Comment on Strategic Plan for Nano Research and Guidance
NIOSH seeks comment on the types of hazard identification and risk management research that should be considered for updating the NIOSH FY2013-FY2016 nanotechnology strategic plan. Comments are due March 19.
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OSHA Updates Non-Mandatory Appendix for Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Labs
OSHA has published in the Federal Register a technical amendment to update a non-mandatory appendix in OSHA’s Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories to include the contents of the latest National Academy of Sciences publication entitled, “Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Management of Chemical Haza
DoL IG Targets OSHA and MSHA in 2013 Workplan
The Labor Department’s Inspector General has released its Audit Workplan
for 2013, available at http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/2013/FY-2013-Audit-Workplan.pdf.
Read more >
MSHA Releases 2012 Preliminary Fatality Data
From MSHA –
[01/31/2013]
Fatality rates at an all-time low, while annual number of deaths is 2nd lowest
ARLINGTON, Va. —
Preliminary data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health
Administration released today indicates that, in 2012, mining fatality rates reached an all-time low for the second straight year.
Read more >
MSHA Files Record Temporary Reinstatement Requests on Behalf of Miners
From MSHA -
[01/29/2013]
US Labor Department’s MSHA continues increased emphasis on miner
discrimination complaints
46 requests for temporary reinstatement made in 2012
WASHINGTON —
The U.S.
Read more >
NIOSH-Funded Study Finds Link Between Low Wages and High Blood Pressure
Research recently published in the European Journal of Public Health and
partially funded by NIOSH has found links between low pay and high blood
pressure, as described in the NIOSH Science Blog at http://go.usa.gov/49nd. According the blog, low socio-economic status has been linked to hypertension, but the reasons why have been unclear.
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EPA Solicits Public Comment for the National Enforcement Initiatives
EPA seeks comments on its National Enforcement Initiatives for fiscal years
2014-2016 and proposals for new sectors or other important strategic areas. The current EPA initiatives in Air, Water, Energy Extraction and Hazardous Chemicals can be found at Current National Enforcement Initiatives. Comments are due February 27.
Read more >
GAO Finds OSHA NRTL Program Could Use Improvements
The General Accounting Office (GAO) has published a review of OSHA’s Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) Program. The GAO found that OSHA’s process for accrediting NRTLs is lengthy due to the scope of staff members’ responsibilities and unclear application procedures for accreditation.
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Study on Older Worker Fatal Falls in Construction
“Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society” has published a study by The Center for Construction Research and Training that found older workers had higher rates of fatal falls than younger workers in construction, with results that were significant in 11 of 14 construction occupations. http://hfs.sagepub.
Read more >
MSHA Bulletin on Use of the Coal Dust Explosibility Meter
MSHA has released a Program Information Bulletin (PIB) is to advise the
underground coal mining community that NIOSH recently published a report on the Coal Dust Explosibility Meter (CDEM), which can be found at http://www.msha.gov/regs/complian/PIB/2013/pib13-01.asp.
Read more >
EPA Makes Public Comprehensive Info on US Chemical Use
EPA has released its 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) information on more than 7,600 chemicals in commerce. The CDR database contains comprehensive use and exposure information on the most widely used chemicals in the US.
Read more >
PHMSA Public Forum on State One-Call Exemptions
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has announced it will hold a public forum on state one-call exemptions. The forum will be held on March 14, 2013, in West Palm Beach, Florida at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.
Read more >
EPA Final Rule on Emission Standards for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines
The EPA is finalizing amendments to its national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for stationary reciprocating internal combustion engines.
Read more >
PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Accident and Incident Notification Time Limit
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published an Advisory Bulletin to notify owners and operators that, as required by the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011, the agency will issue a proposed rule to revise telephonic reporting regulations to establish specific time limits for tele
DOE Seeks Info on Conservation Standards for Commercial Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment
The US Department of Energy (DOE) is initiating an effort to determine whether to amend current energy conservation standards for certain commercial air-conditioning and heating equipment.
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DOE Considering Conservation Standards for Commercial and Industrial Fans and Blowers
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is considering energy conservation standards for commercial and industrial fans and blowers. DOE has prepared a Framework Document that details the analytical approach and scope for the rulemaking and identifies several issues on which DOE is particularly interested in receiving comments.
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EPA Final Emission Standards for Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Boilers
EPA is taking final action on reconsideration of certain issues related to the emission standards to control hazardous air pollutants from new and existing industrial, commercial and institutional boilers at area sources.
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OSHA Setting Whistleblower Procedures for Complaints Under Seaman Protection Act
OSHA seeks comments on the interim final text of regulations governing the employee protection (whistleblower) provisions of the Seaman’s Protection Act, as amended by Section 611 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, which transferred to OSHA the administration of the whistleblower protections previously enforced only through private
EPA Final Rule on Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste
EPA has published a final rule containing decisions made when it granted reconsideration in December 2011 of its March 2011 final rule, “Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units.
Read more >
GAO Stuff on Pipelines, Climate Change and DHS
Pipeline Safety: Better Data and Guidance Could Improve Operators’ Responses to
Incidents, by Susan A. Fleming, director, physical infrastructure issues,
before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
GAO-13-284T, January 28. http://www.gao.
Read more >
ASSE Government Affairs Priorities for 2013
ASSE members should be aware that 2013 might very well prove to be an historic year for occupational safety and health professionals. Although Labor Secretary Solis has resigned, it is expected that Dr. David Michaels will remain as Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA.
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ASSE Asks for Public Hearing in Illinois Asbestos Abatement Rulemaking
Concerned with the lack of outreach to safety and health professionals and the quick action taken to adopt amended rules, ASSE filed a comment asking that the Illinois Department of Public Health hold a hearing on the changes to its rules governing Asbestos Abatement for Public and Private School and
Commercial and Public Buildings.
Read more >
ASSE Comments on Resignation of Labor Secretary Solis
Labor Secretary Hilda Solis has resigned. You can find her resignation statement at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/opa/OPA20130053.htm.
Of course, now that Secretary Solis has submitted her resignation, the game in DC is to figure out who the next Secretary of Labor will be. Thanks to Stephen Lee at BNA for most of these these.
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OSHA Publishes New Reg Agenda
OSHA’s new Regulatory Agenda can be found at http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_doc_type=UNIFIED_AGENDA&p_toc_level=0.
From Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
On January 8, 2013, the Department of Labor’s Fall 2012 Regulatory Agenda was published in the Federal Register.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Latest Inspection Plan under SST
From OSHA –
January 8, 2013
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has
issued its annual inspection plan under the Site-Specific Targeting 2012 program to direct enforcement resources to workplaces where the highest rates of injuries and illnesses occur.
Read more >
MSHA Releases Final Rule on Pattern of Violations
The following summary is prepared by Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal
Representative –
On January 17, 2013, MSHA posted its Final Rule revising Pattern of Violations (POV) procedures.
Read more >
Dr. Beth Rosenberg Confirmed as New CSB Board Member
The US Senate confirmed Dr. Beth J. Rosenberg as a board member of the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB). For 15 years Dr.
Rosenberg has been a member of the faculty of the Public Health Program at
Tufts University School of Medicine.
Read more >
CSB Releases Report on 2011 Hawaii Fireworks Explosion
From CSB –
CSB Report says Honolulu Fireworks Disposal Explosion
that Killed Five Workers Resulted from Unsafe Practices, Lack of National Guidelines, and Lack of Safety Provisions for Federal Contractors
Washington, DC, January 17, 2013 – In a final report set to be considered today, the U.S.
Read more >
OSHA and MSHA Hazard Alert on Diesel Particulate
OSHA and MSHA have issued a hazard alert on the health effects of diesel particulate. Find the alert at http://www.msha.gov/alerts/012013DPMAlert.
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OSHA Holding Stakeholder Meetings to Address Backovers
ASSE is participating in the February 5 meeting in Arlington, TX. From OSHA –
December 17, 2012
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has scheduled five informal stakeholder meetings to solicit comments on preventing injuries and fatalities from vehicle backovers.
Read more >
FAA Proposes Increased OSHA Oversight of Flight Attendants
From OSHA –
[11/30/2012]
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation
Administration, working with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety
and Health Administration, today proposed a new policy for addressing flight
attendant workplace safety.
Read more >
Campaign Underway to Free Silica Rulemaking from White House
While ASSE has urged the White House to move forward an OSHA silica standard, ASSE does not have a positon on what a silica standard should be at this time.
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EPA and CPSC Collaborate on Nano Health Impact Research
From EPA and CPSC –
December 11, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are collaborating in a worldwide research effort to assess any potential impacts of nanomaterials on people’s health and the environment.
Read more >
DOT Issues Statement on Impact of State Marijuana Laws
The Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a notice stating its view of the impact state recreational use laws have on the department’s regulation on the use of marijuana by transportation employees.
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OSHA Seeks Comments on Updating Construction Industry Standards
Comments are due February 4. From OSHA –
Dec. 6, 2012
WASHINGTON –The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is issuing a Request for Information to initiate the fourth phase of its Standards Improvement Project (SIP).
Read more >
First Meeting of OSHA Whistleblower Advisory Committee Set for January 29
OSHA’s newly formed Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee (WPAC) will meet January 29, 2013, in Washington, DC, at the Department of Labor from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Tales from DC: November 29-30 ACCSH Meeting
From Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
On November 29th and 30th, I represented ASSE at OSHA headquarters for a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety & Health (ACCSH), chaired by Eric “Pete” Stafford, with OSHA representative Ben Bare and NIOSH representative Matt Gillen.
Read more >
PHMSA Sets 2013 Minimum Rate for Random Drug Testing
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has determined that the minimum random drug testing rate for covered employees will remain at 25 percent during calendar year 2013.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Integrity Management Program Evaluations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to remind operators of gas transmission and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities of their responsibilities, under Federal integrity management regulations, to perform evaluations of their integrity management programs using meaningful performance metr
New OSHA Online Tool to Protect Against Cadmium Risk
From OSHA –
Dec. 11, 2012
OSHA releases online tool to help protect workers exposed to cadmium
WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today released a new interactive online tool to help protect workers exposed to cadmium.
Read more >
NIOSH Video on Oil and Gas Rig Removal Safety for Truckers
NIOSH has published a video covering rig move safety for truckers in the oil and gas fields. NIOSH says the video “helps make sense of the organized chaos” that accompanies a rig move and highlights some easy ways to lower the risk of being injured or killed when moving to a new location. See the video on YouTube at http://www.
Read more >
EPA Final Rule on Emission Standards for Chemical Manufacturing Area Sources
In January 2012, the EPA proposed revisions to several provisions of the final National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Chemical Manufacturing Area Sources. The proposed revisions were made, in part, in response to a petition for reconsideration following the promulgation of an October 2009, final rule.
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PHMSA Final Rule on HazMat Harmonization with International Standards
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a final rule amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations to maintain alignment with international standards by incorporating various amendments, including changes to proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, a
PHMSA Rulemaking on Transportation of Lithium Batteries
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a notice of proposed rulemaking seeking comments on the impact of changes to the requirements for the air transport of lithium cells and batteries adopted into the 2013-2014 International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions on the Transport of Dangerous
Senate Committee Holds Hearing in WV on Pipeline Safety
From the Democratic Press Office –
Hearing to be held Jan 28, 2013, at 12:00 AM in Charleston, WV.
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV announced that the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold a field
hearing on “Pipeline Safety: An On-the-Ground Look at Safeguarding the Public.
Read more >
DEA Rulemaking on Disposal of Controlled Substances
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is proposing requirements to govern the secure disposal of controlled substances by both DEA registrants and ultimate users to implement the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111-273).
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GAO Stuff
Product Safety Laboratories: OSHA’s Accreditation Process Needs Reexamination, GAO-13-88, December 11 http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-13-88
Passenger Rail Security: Consistent Incident Reporting and Analysis Needed to Achieve Program Objectives, GAO-13-20, December 19 http://www.gao.
Read more >
ASSE Joins with NSC and AIHA to Back OSHA and NIOSH Budgets
In an effort to help make sure the purpose and value of OSHA and NIOSH is not lost in the fervent and highly political debate on the federal budget now underway in Washington, DC, ASSE joined with the National Safety Council (NSC) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) to raise a united voice in support of the budgets for those ag
ASSE Issues Call for Help for Hurricane Sandy Clean-Up Workers in Need of PPE
ASSE has been working with its local members in the New York and New Jersey areas to get help to those impacted by Hurricane Sandy.
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ASSE Asks Members to Urge Employers and Other Organizations to Join 85-3 Campaign
ASSE is asking its members to reach out to employers and other organizations to join the Society as members of the 85-3 Campaign. As the invitation from the campaign indicates, the 85-3 Campaign recognizes organizations and employers that, as part of their hearing protection strategy for workers, have adopted the 85 dBA noise protection level.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations to ACCSH
The OSHA Assistant Secretary has invited interested persons to submit nominations for membership on the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH). Nominations are due January 7, 2013. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-11-07/html/2012-27208.
Read more >
DoL Inspector General Finds OSHA SST Program Needs Improvement
The Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) undertook a performance audit of OSHA’s site-specific targeting (SST) program.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Final Rule Updating Head Protection Standards Based on National Consensus Standards
OSHA has confirmed the effective date of its direct final rule revising the Head Protection standards for general industry, shipyard employment, marine terminals, longshoring, and construction by updating the reference to a standard published by a standards-developing organization, the American National Standards Institute.
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OSHA Announces Whistleblower Protection Program Director
From OSHA –
US Department of Labor’s OSHA announces new Whistleblower Protection Program director
WASHINGTON – Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Heath Dr. David Michaels today announced Beth Slavet as the new director of the agency’s Whistleblower Protection Program.
Read more >
EU Publishes Case Studies and Lit Review on Leadership and OSH
From EU-OSHA –
Oct 29, 2012
A new EU-OSHA report looks at the corporate leadership factors on which success depends.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Instruction for CSHOs Inspecting Highway Work Zones
OSHA on October 16 issued an Instruction intended to help Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) safely inspect roadway and highway construction work zones and to issue consistent citations for violations, according to OSHA. You can find the Instruction at http://op.bna.com/dlrcases.nsf/id/mcan-8z7s3g/$File/OSHA%20directive%20CPL_02-01-054.
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OSHA Seeks Paperwork Comments on PSM Standard
OSHA has asked for comments on its required proposal to extend the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) approval of the information collection (paperwork) requirements specified in the Standard on Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals. Comments are due January 7, 2013. http://www.gpo.
Read more >
FEMA Seeks Comments on Criteria to Evaluate Emergency Response and Preparedness for Nuclear Power Plants
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is soliciting comments from stakeholders and interested members of the public on the scope of future revisions to “Criteria for Preparation and Evaluation of Radiological Emergency Response Plans and Preparedness in Support of Nuclear Power Plants,” (NUREG-0654/FEMA-REP-1, Rev. 1).
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EPA Issues Direct Final Rule on SNURs for Twenty Chemical Substances
EPA is promulgating significant new use rules (SNURs) for 20 chemical substances that were the subject of premanufacture notices (PMNs). Eight of these chemical substances are subject to consent orders issued by EPA.
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PHMSA Seeks Comments HazMat Incident Data Collection
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) requests comments and information to be used for an assessment to improve the collection, analysis, reporting, and use of data related to accidents and incidents involving the transportation of hazardous materials.
Read more >
NIST Sets National Construction Safety Team Advisory Committee Meeting
The National Institute of Standards and Technology of the Department of Commerce has announced an open meeting of the National Construction Safety Team (NCST) Advisory Committee on Monday, December 10, 2012 from 8:30 to 5:00 p.m. Eastern time.
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GAO Stuff
Critical Infrastructure Protection: An Implementation Strategy Could Advance DHS’s Coordination of Resilience Efforts across Ports and Other Infrastructure. GAO-13-11, October 25. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-13-11 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/assets/650/649704.
Read more >
ASSE Comments on Five Agency Expert Forum on Risk Based oil and Gas Reg Approaches
On September 20-21, OSHA, BSEE, EPA, PHMSA and the Coast Guard came together with stakeholders in the oil and gas industry in Texas City, Texas, to discuss regulatory issues facing the industry at the “Expert Forum on the Use of Performance-Based Regulatory Models in the US Oil and Gas Industry, Offshore and Onshore.
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OSHA and NIOSH Spanish Nail Gun Resource Another SPALW Success
Growing out of ASSE’s Alliance with OSHA, dedicated members of ASSE’s Safety Professionals and the Latin Workforce (SPALW) special interest group have been contributing many hours in helping translate and otherwise providing assistance to OSHA in developing products for Spanish-speaking workers.
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OSHA Extends Temp Enforcement Measures for Residential Construction to December 15
From Department of Labor –
August 30, 2012
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will extend for three months its temporary enforcement measures in residential construction.
Read more >
Workplace Fatalities Decrease Slightly in 2011
On September 20, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released workplace fatality data 2011. From the press release, available at http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cfoi.
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Appointments to ACCSH Announced
From DoL –
September 27, 2012
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis appoints 6 members to Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health
WASHINGTON – Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced the appointment of four new members and re-appointment of two current members to the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health.
Read more >
NACOSH Meeting Set for November 15
OSHA’s National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) will meet in at the Department of Labor in Washington, DC, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 15, 2012. The NACOSH Effectiveness Measures Work Group will meet from 1-4 p.m., Wednesday, November 14, 2012. http://www.gpo.
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OSHA Final Rule Establishes Concurrent Fed Enforcement in Hawaii
OSHA has made a final decision to modify the Hawaii State Plan by reinstating concurrent federal enforcement authority over occupational safety and health issues in the state, pending the necessary corrective action by the state plan in order to once again meet the criteria to receive a “final approval” from OSHA.
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PHMSA Launches Pipeline Safety Update Website
DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has created a new website called Pipeline Safety Update to provide information on pipeline safety, which is available at http://opsweb.phmsa.dot.gov/pipelineforum/pipeline_safety_update/index.
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OSHA Establishes Whistleblower Alternative Dispute Resolution Pilot Program
From OSHA –
Tuesday, October 2, 2012 2:32 PM
US Department of Labor’s OSHA announces alternative dispute resolution pilot program for whistleblower complaints
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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EPA Final Rule on Pulp and Paper Industry Emissions
EPA has published a final rule setting the residual risk and technology review conducted for the pulp and paper industry source category regulated under national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants.
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NIOSH Resources and OSHA Heat Campaign Evaluation from Twitter
If you are on Twitter, a ton of resources from different NIOSH areas are shared there.
Read more >
PHMSA Advisory on Communication During Emergency Situations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued an Advisory Bulletin to remind operators of gas, hazardous liquid, and liquefied natural gas pipeline facilities that operators should immediately and directly notify the Public Safety Access Point (PSAP) that serves the communities and jurisdictions in which those pipelines
OSHA Training Institutes Announced
From OSHA’s Office of Outreach Services –
OSHA has announced the renewal of four new OSHA Training Institute (OTI) Education Centers and the renewal of 24 existing OTI Education Centers. OTI Education Centers offer training courses on OSHA standards and other occupational safety and health issues around the country.
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EU Develops Online Small Business Risk Assessment Resources
From EU-OSHA at https://osha.europa.
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EU Report on Managing Workplace Stress and Psychosocial Risks
From EU-OSHA –
Most European companies still don’t have procedures for managing workplace stress and other psychosocial risks, despite the increasing threat that they pose to Europe’s workers.
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PHMSA Proposes Special Permit and Competent Authority HazMat Amendments
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations to incorporate provisions contained in certain widely used or longstanding special permits and certain competent authority approvals that have established safety records.
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PHMSA Safety Advisory on Unauthorized Marking of Compressed Gas Cylinders
The Pipeline and hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a safety advisory to notify the public of the unauthorized marking of high pressure compressed gas cylinders by George Welding & Supply Co., Inc. located at 205 Tombs Lane, Montoursville, PA.
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GAO Stuff
Homeland Security: DHS Requires More Disciplined Investment Management to Help Meet Mission Needs, by John Hutton, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Management, House Committee on Homeland Security. GAO-12-1029T, September 21. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Government Affairs Update – September 12, 2012
See items below on the GA page
Understanding the Increased Focus on Enforcement by Federal OSHA
Recognizing ASSE members’ responsibility for managing interactions with OSHA for their employers, the Government Affairs Committee thought it important that members understand as much as possible about the variety of administrative actions OSHA is taking to focus the agency’s enforcement efforts.
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ASSE Commends OSHA for VPP Review
In a letter to Assistant Secretary David Michaels, ASSE commended OSHA for its report, Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) Review. ASSE said the report was thoughtful, frank and helpful and that the report validated the value of VPP.
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ASSE Nominates Jim Thornton for Reappointment to Chair MACOSH
ASSE nominated James Thornton, CSP, CIH, for reappointment as Chair of OSHA’s Maritime Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health(MACOSH) in a letter to Assistant Secretary for OSHA David Michaels.
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ASSE President Pollock Congratulates CSB Board Member John Bresland on His Retirement
On behalf of ASSE’s members, President Rick Pollock congratulated John Bresland on his retirement from the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB). His letter thanked Bresland for his leadership in helping CSB achieve deserved levels of respect and support.
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Fed Agencies Hold Stakeholder Meeting on Performance-Based Safety in Oil and Gas Industry
ASSE and its Oil and Gas Practice Specialty will be represented at this meeting by Government Affairs Committee members Gene Barfield, Ron Sokol and staff.
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BSEE Finalizes Safety Rule for Offshore Drilling
The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), part of the Interior Department, on August 15, 2012, issued a final safety rules for offshore drilling that fine-tuned emergency rules put into place following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
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OSHA Issues Direct Final Rule on Cranes and Derricks in Demolition and Underground Construction
From OSHA –
August 17, 2012
OSHA issues Direct Final Rule to apply worker safety and health requirements for cranes and derricks to demolition and underground construction
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today issued a direct final rule and notice of proposed rulemaking that applies the requirements of the
OSHA Issues Revised Directive on Enforcing Inspections of Longshoring Operations
August 10, 2012
OSHA releases updated “Tool Shed” directive on procedures for eliminating workplace hazards in the marine cargo handling industry
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today issued a revised directive* providing enforcement guidance for inspections of longshoring operations and at marine termin
OSHA Announces Harwood Grant Recipients
From OSHA -
September 11, 2012
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today awarded $10.
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BLS Wants to Restart Job Data Collection in Green Technologies
On September 17, 2012, the Department of Labor (DOL) has submitting the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) sponsored information collection request (ICR) titled, “Green Technologies and Practices Survey,” to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval.
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PHMSA Rulemaking on HazMat Harmonization with International Standards
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed amendments to the Hazardous Materials Regulations to maintain alignment with international standards by incorporating various amendments, including changes to proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, air transp
EPA Oil and Natural Gas New Source Performance Standards
EPA has revised its new source performance standards for volatile organic compounds from leaking components at onshore natural gas processing plants and new source performance standards for sulfur dioxide emissions from natural gas processing plants. Standards for certain oil and gas operations not covered by existing standards are also revised.
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PHMSA Proposes Revisions to Fireworks Regulations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to revise the Hazardous Materials Regulations that apply to the approval of Division 1.
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GAO Stuff on Aviation, Oil and Gas, Mine Safety and More
Aviation Security: 9/11 Anniversary Observations on TSA’s Progress and Challenges in Strengthening Aviation Security, GAO-12-1024T, September 10 http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-1024T
Oil and Gas Management: Interior’s Reorganization Complete, but Challenges Remain in Implementing New Requirements. GAO-12-423, July 30. http://www.
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ASSE Urges Adoption of FACOSH Recommendations to Upgrade Fed Safety and Health Jobs
In a letter to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, ASSE urged adoption of recommendations by OSHA’s Federal Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH) to upgrade federal safety and health positions.
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ASSE Nominates Rixio Medina to Continue to Serve on NACOSH
In a letter to Assistant Secretary David Michaels, ASSE nominated Rixio E. Medina, CSP, CPP, to continue to serve as a member of OSHA’s National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH).
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Sunstein Leaves OIRA
The often controversial Cass Sunstein has left as Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the White House. ASSE itself weighed in on the Society’s concern (at http://www.asse.org/en/index.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations for NACOSH
OSHA has requested nominations for membership on NACOSH. The terms of four NACOSH members will expire on December 8, 2012. Nominations are due September 10, 2012. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-07-25/html/2012-18174.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations for FACOSH
OSHA has invited interested individuals to submit nominations for membership on the Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH). Nominations are due September 4, 2012. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-07-05/html/2012-16468.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations for MACOSH
OSHA has invited interested persons to submit nominations for membership on the Maritime Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health. Nominations are due September 17, 2012. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-08-02/html/2012-18878.
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CSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Deepwater Horizon
From CSB –
Houston, Texas, July 24, 2012 – In preliminary findings to be released today at a public hearing in Houston, U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) investigators examining the Deepwater Horizon explosion in the Gulf report that companies like Transocean and BP, trade associations, and U.S.
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NIOSH Board of Scientific Counselors Meeting Set for September 18
NIOSH has announced a meeting of its Board of Scientific Counselors (BoSC) for September 18, 2012, at NIOSH headquarters in Washington, DC. The meeting is open to the public but limited by the space available. The meeting room accommodates approximately 50 people.
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Serious Gap between Nano Risks and Risk Communication, Says EU-OSHA
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) has issued a report that found a “serious gap” between understanding potential risks involved in handling nanomaterials at work and the communication of those risks in the workplace.
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MSHA Announces Availability of Brookwood-Sago Mine Safety Grants
MSHA has announced the availability of $1,250,000 in grant funds for educational and training programs to help identify, avoid, and prevent unsafe working conditions in and around mines.
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NIOSH Study Finds Workers with Paid Sick Leave Less Likely to be Injured on the Job
A NIOSH-funded study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that workers with access to paid sick leave were 28% less likely than workers without access to paid sick leave to be injured on the job. You can access the study at http://www2a.cdc.gov/nioshtic-2/BuildQyr.
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NIOSH Develops Emergency Responder Health Monitoring and Surveillance System
NIOSH, working with the U.S. National Response Team and a number of federal agencies, state health departments, labor unions, and volunteer emergency responder groups, has developed the Emergency Responder Health Monitoring and Surveillance (ERHMS) system.
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New OSHA-NIOSH Resources for Workers Using Cleaning Chemicals
Through its cooperative programs, OSHA has made available a new OSHA-NIOSH infosheet PDF, “Protecting Workers Who Use Cleaning Chemicals,” that provides employers with guidance on choosing safer cleaning products, safe work practices, worker training and better cleaning methods.
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OSHA Makes Available Resources on Hazards of Recycling Fluorescent Bulbs
Through its cooperative programs, OSHA has made available a fact sheet and a Quick Card to assist employers and workers in understanding the hazards that mercury poses and how to work safely when crushing or recycling tubular or compact fluorescent bulbs.
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EPA Seeks Comments on Study Comparing Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and decaBDE Flame-Retardant Coatings
EPA has announced a 60-day public comment period for the external review draft document titled, “Nanomaterial Case Study: A Comparison of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Decabromodiphenyl Ether Flame-Retardant Coatings Applied to Upholstery Textiles” (EPA/600/R-12/043A).
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EPA Identifies Substitutes for Toxic Flame Retardant Chemical
From EPA –
July 30, 2012
WASHINGTON – In its quest to identify possible substitutes for a toxic flame retardant chemical known as decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a draft report on alternatives.
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EPA Seeks Comments on Engaging Communities in Environmental Justice Efforts
As part of its ongoing efforts to integrate environmental justice into all of its programs, EPA is seeking comments on ways that EPA and permit applicants can meaningfully engage communities in the permitting process.
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PHMSA Looking for Ways to Reduce Burdens in Reverse Logistics Supply Chain
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) to identify ways to reduce the regulatory burden for those who ship consumer products containing hazardous materials in the “reverse logistics” supply chain.
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OSHA Final Rule on Whistleblower Claims under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act
OSHA has issued a final rule governing employee protection (“whistleblower”) claims under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (STAA), to implement August 2007 statutory changes to STAA as part of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Pipeline Facilities After Railway Accidents
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an advisory bulletin to alert all pipeline owners and operators of the circumstances of the Cherry Valley, Illinois, derailment and remind them of the importance of assuring that pipeline facilities have not been damaged either during a railroad accident or other event oc
PHMSA Proposed Rule on Administrative Procedures, Updates and Technical Corrections
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to update the administrative civil penalty maximums for violation of the pipeline safety regulations to conform to current law, update the informal hearing and adjudication process for pipeline enforcement matters to conform to current l
BSEE Ocean Energy Safety Advisory Committee Meeting in Anchorage
The Department of Interior’s Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has published a notice of a meeting of its Ocean Energy Safety Advisory Committee at the Anchorage Marriott Downtown Hotel in Anchorage, Alaska, on Wednesday, August 29, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday, August 30, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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GAO Stuff on Air Pollution, Influenza and Women in Pipelines
Air Pollution: EPA Needs Better Information on New Source Review Permits. GAO-12-590, June 22. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-590 Podcast – http://www.gao.gov/multimedia/podcasts/592560
Influenza Pandemic: Agencies Report Progress in Plans to Protect Federal Workers but Oversight Could Be Improved. GAO-12-748, July 25. http://www.gao.
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All of OSHA Should be VPP, ASSE Tells House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections
On June 27, the House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a hearing entitled ”Promoting Safe Workplaces Through Voluntary Protection Programs.
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At Request of Arizona Members ASSE Urges OSHA to Ensure ADOSH At Least as Effective in Fall Protection
In a letter to Assistant Secretary David Michaels, ASSE urged OSHA to ensure that the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) meets its obligation as a state plan to be “at least as effective as” federal OSHA and enforce fall protection for residential construction workers at 6 feet.
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OSHA Sends Electric Power Rule to OMB
OSHA has sent its draft final Electric Power rule to OMB for review, arriving June 27, 2012, as noted on the OMB website at http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eoDetails?rrid=122106.
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Updating OSHA Standards Based on Consensus Standards on Head Protection
OSHA has issued a direct final rule to revise the personal protective equipment (PPE) sections of its general industry, shipyard employment, longshoring, and marine terminals standards on requirements for head protection.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations for New Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee
From OSHA –
June 12, 2012
OSHA seeks nominations for membership on its Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is requesting nominations for membership on the Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee (WPAC).
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NIOSH Publishes Guidelines on Working with Nanomaterials in Research Labs
In May, NIOSH published the document General Safe Practices for Working with Engineered Nanomaterials in Research Laboratories [PDF - 2.13 MB] providing recommendations on engineering controls and safe practices for handling engineered nanomaterials in laboratories and some pilot scale operations.
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OSHA and NIOSH Issue Hazard Alert on Hydraulic Fracking
From OSHA’s Office of Outreach Services and Alliances –
OSHA and NIOSH have issued a hazard alert on protecting workers in hydraulic fracturing operations from silica exposure.
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CSB Releases New Strategic Plan
From CSB –
July 12, 2012
Washington, DC, July 12, 2012 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released its 2012 – 2016 strategic plan.
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New CSB Video on Inherently Safe Design and Tech from 2008 Bayer Explosion Investigation
From CSB –
Washington DC July 11, 2012 – The US Chemical Safety Board today released a new safety video that examines the concept of inherent safety and its application across industry; “Inherently Safer: The Future of Risk Reduction” stems from the August 28, 2008, explosion that killed two workers and injured eight others at the Bayer Cro
Seattle MACOSH Meetings Set for July 24-25
From OSHA –
June 6, 2012
OSHA will hold meeting of the Maritime Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will hold a meeting of the Maritime Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (MACOSH) July 24-25, 2012, in Seattle.
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OSHA and BP Settle on 2009 Texas City Explosion
From OSHA –
June 12, 2012
BP agrees to pay more than $13 million and abate violations in settlement agreement with US Department of Labor
Penalty stems from citations for more than 400 process safety management violations cited at Texas refinery in October 2009
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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PHMSA on HazMat Harmonization with Various UN Recommendations on Dangerous Goods Transport
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in response to administrative appeals and seeks public comment on proposals generated as a result of amendments adopted in an international harmonization final rule published in the Federal Register.
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OSHA on Nail Salon Workers
From OSHA’s Office of Outreach Services and Alliances –
OSHA has issued a publication called Stay Healthy and Safe While Giving Manicures and Pedicures: A Guide for Nail Salon Workers (OSHA Publication 3542). This publication provides information to help nail salon workers stay healthy and safe while giving manicures and pedicures.
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FMCSA Final Rule on Driver-Vehicle Inspection Report for Intermodal Equipment
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has eliminated the requirement for drivers operating intermodal equipment (IME) to submit–and intermodal equipment providers (IEPs) to retain–driver-vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) when the driver has neither found nor been made aware of any defects in the IME.
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PHMSA Pipeline Safety Advisory Bulletin on Mechanical Fitting Failure Reports
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to provide owners and operators of gas distribution pipeline facilities clarification for completing the Mechanical Fitting Failure Report Form, PHMSA F 7100.1-2.
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Misc. PMSA Amendments on DOT Specification Cylinders
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) to consider amendments to the HazMat Regulations (HMR) to revise requirements for the manufacture, use, and requalification of DOT specification cylinders.
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EPA Emission Standards for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines and New Source Standards for Stationary Internal Combustion Engines
EPA is proposing amendments to the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for stationary reciprocating internal combustion engines.
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EPA on Emission Standards for Storage Vessel and Transfer Operations, Equipment Leaks, and Closed Vent Systems and Control Devices
On March 26, 2012, the EPA proposed the National Uniform Emission Standards for Storage Vessels and Transfer Operations, Equipment Leaks, and Closed Vent Systems and Control Devices (Uniform Standards). The EPA is extending the deadline for written comments on the proposed amendments by 90 days.
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GAO Stuff on Contractor IDs and Oil Dispersants
Government Is Analyzing Alternatives for Contractor Identification Numbers. GAO-12-715R, June 12. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-715R
Oil Dispersants: Additional Research Needed, Particularly on Subsurface and Arctic Applications, GAO-12-585, May 30. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Opposes Effort to Undercut Development of Independent Consensus Standards
In a comment to the Office of the Federal Register (OFR), ASSE strongly opposed possible rulemaking to amend OFR’s regulations defining “reasonably available” or change current requirements related to materials incorporated by reference (IBR) in regulations published in the Federal Register, as sought in a petition to OFR.
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Norris and Howard Renew ASSE-NIOSH Partnership
On May 7, ASSE President Terrie Norris and NIOSH Director John Howard signed a partnership agreement between ASSE and NIOSH.
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ASSE Asks Members to Join in Fight for NIOSH ERC and AgFF Programs
ASSE called on each of its members to join in the fight against the Obama Administration’s proposed elimination of funding for Education and Resource Centers and the NORA Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (AgFF) research program by writing emails to key members of the U.S. Senate and House.
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Government Affairs at Safety 2012
The following is a list of sessions at Safety 2012 that involve those in government who contribute to the success of ASSE’s professional development conference, plus a few other issues of interest to ASSE’s own ongoing efforts to advance the profession. Hope to see you in Denver.
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GAO Publishes Study on OSHA Standard-Setting Process
(See also item on Senate HELP Hearing on this subject.)
At the request of Congress, the General Accountability Office (GAO) studied why it takes OSHA so long to finalize a standard.
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GAO Publishes Study on Safety Incentives Programs
On April 9, the Government Accountability Office published a study, “Workplace Safety and Health: Better OSHA Guidance Needed on Safety Incentive Programs,” (GAO-12-329), which can be found at http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-329.
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OSHA and NIOSH Join in Fall Prevention Push
From OSHA’s Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs –
OSHA, NIOSH, and NIOSH’s National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Construction Sector Council have launched a campaign to prevent falls in construction.
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OSHA Launches 2012 Heat Campaign
From OSHA’s Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs –
OSHA has launched its 2012 campaign to prevent heat illness in outdoor workers. To those of you involved in last year’s campaign, we thank you for your support and look forward to working with you again this year.
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OSHA Established Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee
The Secretary of Labor has published the intention to establish the Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee (WPAC) to advise, consuls with, and make recommendations to the Secretary and the Assistant Secretary of OSHA on ways to improve the fairness, efficiency, effectiveness and transparency of OSHA’s whistleblower protection activities.
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Tales from DC: Cass Sunstein and Future of Voluntary Consensus Standards at SBA
From Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
On May 18, 2012, I represented ASSE at the bi-monthly meeting of the Small Business Administration’s OSHA/MSHA roundtable.
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Senate HELP Holds Hearing on OSHA Standard Setting Process
On April 19, the Senate Commitee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions held a hearing entitled, “Time Takes Its Toll: Delays in OSHA’s Standard-Setting Process and the Impact on Worker Safety.” the hearing can be watched at http://www.help.senate.
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Tales from DC: Senate HELP Hearing on OSHA Standard Setting Process
From Adele Abrams, Esq.
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EPA Draft Guidance on Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels
EPA seeks comments on a draft document that describes Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program guidance for permitting the underground injection of oil- and gas-related hydraulic fracturing (HF) using diesel fuels where the EPA is the permitting authority.
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Tales from DC: MSHA Stakeholders Meeting on Noise and Fall Protection
April12, from Adele Abrams, Esq.
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PHMSA Issues Advisory Bulletin on MAOP Verification of Records
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to remind operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities to verify their records relating to operating specifications for maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP) required by 49 CFR 192.
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EPA Proposed Rule on Medical Waste Incinerators and New Stationary Sources
In October 2009, the EPA adopted amendments to its 1997 new source performance standards and emissions guidelines for hospital/medical/infectious waste incinerators in response to a 1999 remand of its 1997 hospital/medical/infectious waste incinerators regulations by a federal appeals court.
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EPA Proposes Electronic Reporting Under TSCA
EPA is proposing to require electronic reporting for information that must be submitted under Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) section 4 (pursuant to test rules and enforceable consent agreements (ECAs)), TSCA section 8(a) Preliminary Assessment Information Rule (PAIR), and TSCA section 8(d) Health and Safety Data Reporting rules.
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PHMSA HazMat Final Rule on Packages Intended for Transport by Aircraft
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations to require closures of inner packagings containing liquids within a combination packaging intended for transportation by aircraft to be secured by a secondary means or, where a secondary closure cannot be applied or it is impracticable
Examinations of Work Areas in Underground Coal Mines for Violations of Mandatory Health or Safety Standards
MSHA has revised its requirements for preshift, supplemental, on-shift, and weekly examinations of underground coal mines to require operators to identify violations of health or safety standards related to ventilation, methane, roof control, combustible materials, rock dust, other safeguards, and guarding, as listed in the final rule.
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OSHA Competition to Be OSHA Training Institute Education Centers
OSHA has announced the opportunity for interested non-profit organizations, including qualifying trade associations, labor unions, and community-based and faith-based organizations that are not an agency of a state or local government to submit applications to become an OSHA Training Institute Education Center and deliver standard classroom instruc
Miscellaneous PHMSA HazMat Amendments
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed to make miscellaneous amendments to the Hazardous Materials Regulations to update and clarify certain regulatory requirements.
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FMCSA Issues Reg Guidance on Tank Vehicle Endorsements
On May 9, 2011, FMCSA published a final rule titled “Commercial Driver’s License Testing and Commercial Learner’s Permit Standards.” Among other things, the rule revised the definition of “tank vehicle.
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GAO Stuff on NRC, DOE, Oil Shale
Nuclear Regulatory Commission: Natural Hazard Assessments Could Be More Risk-Informed. GAO-12-465, April 26. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-465 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/assets/600/590430.pdf
Nuclear Safety: DOE Needs to Determine the Costs and Benefits of Its Safety Reform Effort. GAO-12-347, April 20. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Joins in Opposing NIOSH AgFF and ERC Funding Cuts in FY13 Administration Budget
ASSE has joined with 127 other NIOSH stakeholders to voice opposition to the Obama Administration’s proposed elimination of funding for Education and Resource Centers and the NORA Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (AgFF) research program in letters to leaders of the Senate and House Appropriations Subcommittees on Labor, HHS, Education
Norris and Michaels Sign Renewed ASSE-OSHA Alliance
On March 16, ASSE President Terrie Norris and Assistant Secretary David Michaels signed a renewed Alliance agreement between ASSE and OSHA. The overall goal of the two-year Alliance is to promote best practices for reducing and preventing worker exposures to health and physical hazards.
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Nano SNURs Can’t Overlook Engineering Controls, ASSE Tells EPA
ASSE submitted a comment on an EPA proposed rule to set significant new use rules (SNURs) for chemical substances, 7 of which included carbon nanotubes.
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OSHA Looking for Info on Reinforced Concrete in Construction, Preventing Backover Injuries and Fatalities
OSHA has published a Request for Information on employee safety risks in two areas, reinforcing operations in concrete work (construction only) and fatal backovers by vehicles and equipment (all industries).
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Latest in the Federal Budget Fight over OSHA and MSHA
On March 28, 2012, DoL Secretary Hilda Solis testified before the House Appropropriations Subcommittee On Labor, Health And Human Services, Education And Related Agencies. Her testimony, at http://www.dol.gov/_sec/media/congress/20120328_solis.
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Responsibility for Upper Big Branch at Issue in DC
On March 27, Assistant Secretary for MSHA, Joe Main, testified before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce about MSHA’s investigation into the April 2010 Upper Big Branch mine explosion in West Virginia that killed 29 miners. You can read his testimony at http://www.dol.gov/_sec/media/congress/20120327_Main.htm.
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OSHA Revises Hazard Communication Standard
From OSHA QuickTakes –
To better protect workers from hazardous chemicals, OSHA has revised its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), aligning with the United Nations’ global chemical labeling system (GHS).
The revised standard, once implemented, will prevent an estimated 43 deaths and result in an estimated $475.
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OSHA Issues Memo on Safety Incentive and Disincentive Policies
From OSHA QuickTakes –
In a March 12 memo to OSHA Regional Administrators and whistleblower investigative staff, OSHA’s Deputy Assistant Secretary Richard Fairfax addressed workplace policies and practices that can discourage workers from reporting injuries and could constitute unlawful discrimination and a violation of section 11(c) of the
New OSHA NEP for Nursing and Residential Care Facilities
April 5, 2012
US Labor Department’s OSHA announces new National Emphasis Program for Nursing and Residential Care Facilities
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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EPA Announces Fines for Lead RRP Violators
April 5, 2012
EPA Fines Violators of the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced three enforcement actions for violations of the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) and other lead rules.
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ASSE Transportation Practice Specialty Develops Resource on Avoiding Distracted Driving
In time for Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April, ASSE’s Transportation Practice Specialy has developed a new tip sheet on “Avoiding Distracted Driving” available on a newly established Prevent Distracted Driving ASSE website providing additional distracted driving resources.
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OSHA Announces Harwood Grant Availability
OSHA announced the availability of approximately $1.2 million for Susan Harwood Training Program Grants under the following categories: Targeted Topic Training, and Training and Educational Materials Development Grants. Grant applications must be received electronically by the Grants.gov system no later than 4:30 p.m., E.T.
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CSB Seeks Comments on Draft Strategic Plan
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced it is requesting public comments on its draft 2012-2016 CSB Strategic Plan. The draft plan is an update of the 2007 – 2012 CSB Strategic Plan, and includes the CSB’s strategic goals, strategic objectives, and associated measures for managing and evaluating agency operations. CSB Chairperson Dr.
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Employers with High injury and Illness Rates Get a Letter from Dr. Michaels
From OSHA QuickTakes –
To help employers understand and improve their injury and illness rates, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, Dr. David Michaels sent letters to approximately 14,900 workplaces with high rates of days away from work, restricted work or job transfer in 2010.
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California Adopts New PELs
From OSHA QuickTakes –
To better protect workers who may be exposed to chemical contaminants, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board has adopted lower permissible exposure limits (PELs) for carbon disulfide, hydrogen fluoride, sulfuric acid, and toluene.
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Michigan Regulatory Reinvention Report Targets Safety Rules
Michigan’s Office of Regulatory Reinvention released a report, “Recommendations of the Office of Regulatory Reinvention Regarding Workplace Safety Regulations” calling for changing more than 300 Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) rules exceeding federal regulations and eliminating more than 6oo other MIOSHA
Tales from DC: SBA Office of Advocacy OSHA and MSHA Roundtable Meeting
On March 30, 2012, the Small Business Association, Office of Advocacy held its OSHA/MSHA roundtable, and Justin Winter, Esq. of the Law Office attended on behalf of ASSE.
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OSHA Confirms Direct Final Rule Revising Standards Referenced in the Acetylene Standard
OSHA has confirmed the effective date of its direct final rule revising the Acetylene Standard for general industry by updating the reference to a standard published by a standards-developing organization, the Compressed Gas Association.
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DoT Creates Commercial Bus Safety App
As its Twitter post indicates – “There’s no value in skimping on #safety. Know your carrier w/new mobile #bus #app http://bit.ly/GCJOdM” – the Department of Transportation has created a phone app to check on the safety of commercial bus lines. At, DoT says about the app at http://fastlane.dot.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Post Accident Drug and Alcohol Testing
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin concerning its regulations in Part 199 requiring pipeline operators and operators of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facilities to conduct post-accident drug and alcohol tests of covered employees.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Drisco8000 High Density Polyethylene Pipe
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to alert operators using Driscopipe[supreg] 8000 High Density Polyethylene Pipe (Drisco8000) of the potential for material degradation.
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CSB Develops Policy on Employee Participation in Investigations
From CSB –
Washington, DC, March 7, 2012 — The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced today that it has developed a new policy on employee participation in investigations that the Board hopes will enhance the vital role played by plant workers in determining root causes of incidents and promoting facility safety.
Read more >
PHMSA Rulemaking on Pipeline Damage Prevention Programs
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking to revise the Pipeline Safety Regulations to establish criteria and procedures for determining the adequacy of state pipeline excavation damage prevention law enforcement programs; establish an administrative process for making a
PHMSA Seeks Comments on Leak and Valve Studies
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a Notice of Public Comment offering all stakeholders an opportunity to comment on the scope of recently commissioned studies involving leak detection systems and valves.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Cast Iron Pipe
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to owners and operators of natural gas cast iron distribution pipelines and state pipeline safety representatives.
Read more >
PHMSA Advisory on Implementing National Registry of Pipeline and Liquefied Natural Gas Operators
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin advising owners and operators of pipeline facilities of PHMSA’s plan for implementing the national registry of pipeline and liquefied natural gas operators.
Read more >
OSHA Seeks Applications to Become OTI Training Institute Ed Centers
From OSHA –
April 12, 2012
US Department of Labor’s OSHA seeks applications from organizations interested in becoming OSHA Training Institute Education Centers
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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GAO Stuff on Food, Pilot Training, Freight Carriers and Pipelines
Food Safety: Preslaughter Interventions Could Reduce E. coli in Cattle. GAO-12-257, March 9. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-257 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/assets/590/589162.pdf
Aviation Safety: FAA Has An Opportunity to Enhance Safety and Improve Oversight of Initial Pilot Training, GAO-12-537T, March 20 http://www.gao.
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ASSE Responds to Rep. Walberg Commentary on I2P2
ASSE sent the following letter to the editor in response to a commentary by Representative Tim Walberg (R-MI), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, which is responsible for workplace safety and health issues.
Dear Washington Examiner:
In response to Rep.
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ASSE States Support for OSHA Rescission of Residential Fall Protection Exemption
In light of the criticism and complaints that have followed the OSHA’s directive rescinding the Interim Fall Protection Compliance Guidelines for Residential Construction, ASSE in a letter to Assistant Secretary David Michaels stated its support for the change in policy as a needed step forward in protecting workers.
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Consider Lower Noise PEL Instead of Econ Feasibility Interpretation, ASSE Tells OSHA
Adding to previous comments opposing OSHA’s Interpretation of Provisions for Feasible Administrative or Engineering Controls of Occupational Noise, ASSE suggested in a letter to Assistant Secretary David Michaels that a more valuable measure to reduce noise exposures would be lowering OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) for noise from
OSHA Delays I2P2 – Small Businesses Wanted for SBREFA Panel
As the email messages below from SBA and OSHA indicate, OSHA is delaying sending information on its I2P2 rulemaking to the SBA for SBREFA review. Also, if you have a small business client, they may want to participate in the SBREFA process. Contact information is below, or let Dave Heidorn know at dheidorn@asse.org.
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OMB Clears Final OSHA HazCom Rule
The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs of the Office of Management and Budget has concluded its regulatory review of OSHA’s long-awaited rulemaking to align more closely U.S. hazard communication requirements with the UN’s Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classifying and labeling chemicals.
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2013 Administration Budget Request for Fed Safety Agencies – NIOSH ERCs and AFF Research Again Targeted
On February 13, the White House released and sent to Congress the Administration’s 2013 Budget Request. The following is from Adele Abrams, who is ASSE’s Federal Representative, summarizes Budget Requests for the workplace safety agencies, OSHA, MSHA, NIOSH and CSB.
NIOSH
The 2013 Budget Request for NIOSH is $249.
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Reorg for OSHA Whistleblower Program
OSHA press release –
March 1, 2012
WASHINGTON – Moving forward with continuing efforts to strengthen employees’ voices in the workplace, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced a major restructuring of its Office of the Whistleblower Protection Program.
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Upper Big Branch Mine Superintendent Charged with Felony Conspiracy
From the US Attorney’s Office, Southern District of West Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/wvs/press_releases/Feb2012/attachments/022212Gary_May_UBB_release.html
Feb. 22, 2012
UPPER BIG BRANCH MINE SUPERINTENDENT CHARGED WITH FELONY CONSPIRACY
CHARLESTON, W.Va.
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OSHA Extends Temporary Enforcement Measures in Residential Construction
From OSHA –
February 15, 2012
WASHINGTON –The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will extend for six months its temporary enforcement measures in residential construction.
Read more >
CSB Calls for OSHA Dust Standard on Imperial Sugar Explosion Anniversary
From CSB –
Statement from CSB Chairman Moure-Eraso on the Four Year Anniversary of the Catastrophic Imperial Sugar Explosion – Chairman Continues to Encourage Industry to
Support a Combustible Dust Standard and Applauds Success of Recommendations
Tuesday, February 7, 2012, marks the fourth anniversary of the massive sugar dust explosion tha
NASA Buy Quiet Roadmap Updated
From NASA –
The NASA Buy-Quiet Process Roadmap, an online tool for navigating the procurement of low-noise equipment, has a new home. The Roadmap, which has been upgraded and updated over the past several months, is part of the NASA EARLAB Auditory Demonstration Laboratory website, which is now located at http://buyquietroadmap.com.
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Nurse Miscarriages Linked to Chemicals at Work
From NIOSH eNews –
A new NIOSH study finds a greater-than-expected risk of miscarriages among nurses, associated with occupational exposures to hazardous drugs. The full study is available at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002937811024707.
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Study Links Solvent Exposure to Increased Parkinson Disease Risk
From a Twitter post by NIOSHConstruct Construction @ NIOSH, comes a study in the Annals of Neurology reporting that exposure to specific solvents may increase risk of Parkinson Disease. See the abstract at http://bit.ly/AgsCf2.
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EPA Issues Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Sites
From EPA –
February 16, 2012
New permit includes more protections for waterways, shaped by important public and stakeholder feedback
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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EPA Final Rule on Electronics Manufacturing Heat Transfer Fluid Provisions
The EPA has finalized technical revisions to the electronics manufacturing source category of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule related to fluorinated heat transfer fluids. EPA has finalized amendments to the definition of fluorinated heat transfer fluids and to the provisions to estimate and report emissions from fluorinated heat transfer fluids.
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GAO Stuff on Pipelines and Superfund
Safety Effects of Less Prescriptive Requirements for Low-Stress Natural Gas Transmission Pipelines Are Uncertain. GAO-12-389R, February 16. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-389R
Superfund: Status of EPA’s Efforts to Improve Its Management and Oversight of Special Accounts, GAO-12-109, January 18. http://www.gao.
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Study Finds Quarter Trillion Cost in 2007 Workplace Injuries and Illnesses
The Milbank Quarterly, a journal of population health and health policy, has published a study by J. Paul Leigh of UC-Davis estimating the national costs of occupational injury and illness among US civilians in 2007. The abstract can be found at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-0009.2011.00648.x/full.
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RAND California Study Indicates What Makes an I2P2 Standard Work
A RAND Corporation study conducted by John Mendeloff and others for the California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation provided an evaluation of the effectiveness of California’s I2P2 standard. The preliminary draft of the report can be found at https://www.dir.ca.gov/chswc/Reports/2012/IIPPEvaluation.
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OSHA Issues I2P2 White Paper Ahead of Proposal First Look
As the Small Business Administration begins the process of engaging what will be a panel of small businesses in a review of a proposed OSHA injury and illness prevention program (I2P2) standard through the SBREFA process that all OSHA rulemaking must undergo (http://www.sba.
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ASSE Stands Against Reported California Effort to Corner PEL Work for CIHs
On behalf of its nearly 3,000 members in California, ASSE sent a letter to the sponsor of state legislation that has been reported will be used by the California Industrial Hygiene Council (CIHC) to ensure that only CIHs would be able to supervise or direct the monitoring of control methods for PELs in California workplaces.
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ASSE Nominates Gary Lopez to ACCSH
ASSE nominated Gary Lopez to OSHA’s Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH). Gary is a widely respected Professional Member of ASSE with strong experience in managing workplace safety and health risks in the construction industry.
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OSHA Releases Fall 2011 Reg Agenda January 2012
On January 20, the Department of Labor announced its Fall 2011 regulatory agenda. The agenda itself can be found at http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_doc_type=UNIFIED_AGENDA&p_toc_level=0.
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Four Final Rules on MSHA Reg Agenda
As with OSHA, the Department of Labor’s Statement of Regulatory Priorities explaining the agenda in the context of its overall Good Jobs for Everyone initiative as well as its Plan/Prevent/Protect Compliance Strategy (http://www.dol.gov/regulations/2010RegNarrative.htm) can be found at http://www.dol.gov/asp/regs/Fall2011RegAgenda.pdf.
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Study Finds 2007 Costs of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses $250 Billion
The Milbank Quarterly, a journal of population health and health policy, has published a study by J. Paul Leigh of UC-Davis estimating the national costs of occupational injury and illness among US civilians in 2007. The abstract can be found at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-0009.2011.00648.x/full.
Read more >
OSHA Analyzes the Costs of Falls in Construction
From OSHA QuickTakes –
A new OSHA PowerPoint presentation shows the heavy financial cost resulting from falls in construction. OSHA analyzed workers’ compensation data for injuries resulting from falls from elevations suffered by roofers and carpenters.
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Duke Study Finds Obesity Increases Workers Comp Costs
From the study, which can be found at http://www.dukehealth.org/health_library/news/10044
“Gaining too much weight can be as bad for an employer’s bottom line as it is for a person’s waistline.
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OSHA Reminds Employers to Post Injury and Illness Summaries Beginning Feb. 1
From OSHA QuickTakes –
Beginning Feb. 1, employers who are required to keep the OSHA Form 300 Injury and Illness log must post a summary of the log. Employers must post OSHA’s Form 300A from Feb. 1 to April 30, 2012 in a common area wherever notices to workers are usually posted.
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OSHA Updates Directive for Fed Worker Targeted Inspection Program
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA recently updated its Federal Agency Targeting Inspection Program (FEDTARG) directive for fiscal year 2012. FEDTARG directs programmed inspections of federal agency establishments that experienced high numbers of lost time injuries during FY 2011.
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MSHA Announces Third Phase of Rules to Live By
From MSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today (January 31) launched the third phase of an outreach and enforcement program designed to strengthen efforts to prevent mining fatalities.
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MSHA Announces 2011 Fatality Data
From MSHA –
01/05/2012
MSHA releases preliminary fatality data for 2011
ARLINGTON, Va. — Preliminary data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration released today reveal that 37 miners died in work-related accidents at the nation’s mines in 2011.
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National Academies Lays Out Research Strategy for Nano Risks
The National Academy of Sciences has issued a report A Research Strategy for Environmental, Health, and Safety Aspects of Engineered Nanomaterials stating that, because not enough is known about the potential risks nanomaterils pose to health and the environment, those risks need to be studied further.
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Its Inspector General Says EPA Must Manage Nano Risks Better
From the summary at http://www.epa.gov/oig/reports/2012/20121229-12-P-0162_glance.pdf .
“We found that EPA does not currently have sufficient information or processes to effectively manage the human health and environmental risks of nanomaterials.
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OSHA Posts Summary Report of Stakeholder Meeting on Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss
ASSE was represented at this meeting by Tom Cecich, VP for the Council on Professional Affairs –
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA held an informal stakeholder meeting Nov. 3, 2011, on preventing occupational hearing loss to provide a public forum and gather information on the best practices for noise reduction in the workplace.
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Feds Issue Memo on Engaging in Voluntary Consensus Standards Activities
The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) have issued a memorandum clarifying principles for federal engagement in voluntary consensus standards activities to address national priorities. Sent to the leadership of U.S.
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New NIOSH Dust Monitor is Commercialized
The NIOSH Office of Mine Safety and Health Research in Pittsburgh has developed a new personal dust monitor that recently was commercialized as the Personal Dust Monitor 3600 (PDM). NIOSH believes the monitor will modernize how coal dust exposure in the mining industry is monitored.
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New OSHA Training Videos in English and Spanish on Respirator Use
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA has posted a series of 17 videos to help workers learn about the proper use of respirators on the job. These short videos, nine in English and eight in Spanish, provide valuable information to workers in general industry and construction.
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Tales from DC: US-Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council on GHS
From Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
On January 31, 2012, I represented ASSE at a meeting of the US/Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC) at the US Department of Commerce.
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CSB Calls for National Fire Code for Hazardous Waste Handling in Ohio Investigation
From CSB –
December 26, 2011
Investigation Details: EQ Hazardous Waste Plant Explosions and Fire; Veolia Environmental Services Flammable Vapor Explosion and Fire
Today as many people enjoy a holiday season spent with friends and family, I would like to call attention to a recent tragedy that occurred late last week in eastern Ohio.
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Environmental Group Uses Health Costs to Argue Against Coal in Kentucky
The Kentucky Environmental Foundation has issued a report using health research to make an argument against the use of coal in Kentucky. The report is available at The Health Impact Assessment on Coal and Clean Energy Options in Kentucky.
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CSB Video on TN Hoeganaes Incidents that Killed 5
From CSB –
Washington DC, January 5, 2012 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new safety video depicting three accidents involving combustible iron dust at the Hoeganaes Corporation in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Read more >
New OSHA Spanish Translations of Intro to OSHA for Outreach Training Program
From OSHA’s Directorate of Cooperative and State Programs –
OSHA has issued Spanish translations of the “Introduction to OSHA” component of its Outreach Training Program curriculum.
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EU Parliament Approves Review of Strategy for Safety and Health at Work
From the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work –
The Parliament’s report highlights the need to protect women, young people, ageing and migrant workers in Europe’s workplaces. MSDs and work related stress are pointed out as main areas of concern for European enterprises in relation to OSH.
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EU-OSHA Offers Guide on Incentives
From the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work –
This Guide on Economic Incentives Schemes is intended to serve as a practical and user-friendly guide to help incentive providers to create or optimise their own economic incentive schemes.
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EPA on Penalties for On-Highway Heavy-Duty Diesel Engines
EPA is taking final action to make nonconformance penalties (NCPs) available to manufacturers of heavy heavy-duty diesel engines in model years 2012 and 2013 for emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOX).
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PHMS Publishes Random Drug Testing Rate
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has given notice of its minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing for covered employees, which will remain at 25 percent during calendar year 2012. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-01-18/html/2012-740.
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PHMSA on National Registry of Pipeline and Liquefied Natural Gas Operators
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published a notice advising owners and operators of pipeline facilities of PHMSA’s plan regarding the implementation of the national registry of pipeline and liquefied natural gas operators. The national pipeline operator registry became effective on January 1, 2012.
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OSH Responsibilities Switch from DoE to TOSHA at Some Oak Ridge Facilities
An Addendum to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Labor and the Department of Energy has been signed to transfer employee safety and health authority from the Department of Energy (DOE) to the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) at two existing building complexes and three other parcels of land at
EPA Issues National Mercury Pollution Standards for Power Plants
From EPA –
December 21, 2011
Historic ‘mercury and air toxics standards’ meet 20-year old requirement to cut dangerous smokestack emissions
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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EPA Releases Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities
From EPA –
January 11, 2012
2010 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities Now Available
First release of data through the national GHG reporting program
WASHINGTON – For the first time, comprehensive greenhouse gas (GHG) data reported directly from large facilities and suppliers across the country are now easily accessible to the pu
GAO Stuff
Hardrock Mining: BLM Needs to Revise Its Systems for Assessing the Adequacy of Financial Assurances. GAO-12-189R, December 12 (8 pages) http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-189R
Chemical Assessments: Challenges Remain with EPA’s Integrated Risk Information System Program. GAO-12-42, December 9. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Supports NTSB Call for Ban on Use of Portable Electronic Devices While Driving
The following press release carried ASSE’s message supporting the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) call for a nationwide ban on driver use of portable electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. NTSB’s press release can be found at http://www.ntsb.gov/news/2011/111213.
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ASSE Nominates Ron Sokol for NACOSH
In a letter letter to Assistant Secretary for OSHA David Michaels, ASSE nominated Ron Sokol, CSP, for NACOSH.
Read more >
ASSE and OSHA Meet to Discuss Risk Management Issues
On November 21, 2011, an ASSE delegation consisting of President Terrie Norris, Jim Newberry, Thad Nosal, Manager of Gov’t Affairs and Policy Dave Heidorn and ASSE’s Federal Representative Adele Abrams met at OSHA headquarters with OSHA staff members that included Assistant Secretary David Michaels, Glenn Shor of the California Division of Work
OSH Agencies in FY 2012 Funding Bill
As indicated in this news release from the House Appropriations Committee Chairman at http://appropriations.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=272984, Congress on December 16 passed into law the Conference Report on the Consolidated Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2012.
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Corporate Culture Cited as Root Cause of Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster: 369 citations, $10.8 Million in Civil Penalties
From Department of Labor –
The 20-month investigation into the worst coal mining disaster in 40 years came to an end this week. In back-to-back meetings with family members and the public, Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Mine Safety and Health Administration Joseph Main, Solicitor of Labor M.
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Secretary Solis on Upper Big Branch Agreement
From the Department of Labor at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/msha/MSHA20111738.htm
12/6/2011 – Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement in response to the agreement announced today among the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, the U.S.
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Congress Passes Bipartisan Pipeline Safety Bill
As this information from a Congressman at http://shuster.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=241 and a Senator at http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3ab185f7-3754-4373-b5ef-91e013061d20 indicate, Congress can agree on something and that’s a pipeline safety bill.
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Tales from DC: December 14-15 NACOSH Meeting
From the Law Offices of Adele Abarms, ASSE’s Federal Representative –
On behalf of ASSE I attended the 2-day meeting of the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) on December 14-15, 2011, held at the Department of Labor Perkins Building.
Dr.
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Tales from DC: December 15 ACCSH Meeting
From the Law Offices of Adele Abrams, ASSE’s Federal Representative –
OSHA held a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) from Dec.13-16, 2011, in Washington, D.C. The Law Office represented ASSE at the portion held on Dec. 15th.
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National Academy Calls for System Safety Approach in Offshore Drilling
The following is a press release from the National Academies of Science from http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=13273
Dec.
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DC Circuit Court Upholds OSHA’s Multi-Employer Citation Policy
From OSHA QuickTakes –
The D.C. Circuit upheld OSHA’s multi-employer citation policy, in a Dec. 14 decision against Summit Contractors Inc. OSHA cited the company for providing electrical equipment without ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to its subcontractors in violation of section 1926.
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OSHA Launches NEP on Chemical Facilities
From OSHA –
OSHA issued a new National Emphasis Program (NEP) for chemical facilities to protect workers from catastrophic releases of highly hazardous chemicals. The new NEP replaces OSHA’s 2009 pilot Chemical Emphasis Program that covered several OSHA regions around the country.
The program (http://www.osha.
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OSHA Publishes Direct Final Rule on Acetylene Standard
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA published a revision to its Acetylene Standard in the December 5, 2011, Federal Register that replaces a reference to an outdated consensus standard with an updated reference that reflects current industry practices in the acetylene industry.
Read more >
FMCSA and PHMSA Issues Final Rule on Restricting Use of Cellular Phones
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) have published a final rule amending the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to restrict the use of hand-held mobile telephones by drivers of commercial motor vehicles
OSHA Advances NAOSH Week
ASSE greatly appreciates all that OSHA through its alliance program has done to support NAOSH Week.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations to ACCSH
OSHA has invited interested persons to submit nominations for membership on ACCSH. Three new employer representatives, three new employee representatives, one new representative of state safety and health agencies, and one new public representative will be appointed. Nominations are due January 23, 2012. http://www.gpo.
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New Findings Show Construction Workers Face Higher Occupational Risks
From NIOSH eNews –
Dr.
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Enzi Raises Concern Over Delay in Naming BLS Commissioner
From Senator Enzi’s office –
November 29, 2011
Enzi Concerned with Delayed Nominations for Labor Agency
Questions Labor Sec.
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Nail Gun Safety Website Launched
From NIOSH eNews –
Dr. Hester Lipscomb of Duke University in conjunction with CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training—launched a new website http://www.nailgunfacts.org/ on December 2. The website provides video interviews with workers, and information on how nail guns work and how to prevent nail gun injuries.
Read more >
Department of Labor Settles Litigation on Illinois Grain Bin Deaths
From Department of Labor at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/osha/OSHA20111702.htm.
The U.S.
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OSHA Proposes Revoking Variances for Cylindrical Steel Tank Construction
OSHA states that, between 1975 and 1977, it granted permanent variances to 24 companies engaged in the construction of cylindrical steel tanks.
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OSHA Seeks Comment on Handling Retaliation Complaints under Sarbanes-Oxley
By interim final rule, OSHA is amending regulations governing employee protection (retaliation or whistleblower’) claims under section 806 of the Corporate and Criminal Fraud Accountability Act of 2002, Title VIII of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which was amended by sections 922 and 929A of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Pr
OSHA Announces Safe Workplaces Photo Contest Winners
From OSHA at http://www.osha.gov/osha40/photo-winners.html
OSHA is pleased to announce the winners of our Picture It! Safe Workplaces for Everyone photo contest.
Thank you to all who submitted their images of workplace safety and health. Please visit the DOL Flickr page to see additional contest submissions.
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EPA Makes Formerly Confidential Chemical Info Available
From EPA –
November 28, 2011
WASHINGTON – As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to enhance the U.S.
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Public Hearings for Light-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions and CAFE Standards
EPA and NHTSA have announcing public hearings for their joint proposed rules “2017 and Later Model Year Light-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Corporate Average Fuel Economy
Standards,” published in the Federal Register on December 1, 2011.
Read more >
PHMSA Issues Notice of Changes to Pipeline Safety Regulations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to make miscellaneous changes to the pipeline safety regulations. The proposed changes would correct errors, address inconsistencies, and respond to rulemaking petitions.
Read more >
EPA Proposed Rule on Mineral Wool Production and Wool Fiberglass Manufacturing Emissions
EPA has proposed amendments to the national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants for mineral wool production and wool fiberglass manufacturing to address the results of the residual risk and technology review that the EPA is required to conduct by the Clean Air Act.
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PHMSA Rulemaking on Use of Excess Flow Valves in Gas Distribution Systems
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) in response to a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has made a safety recommendation to PHMSA that excess flow valves be installed in all new and renewed gas service lines, regardless of a customer’s class
EPA Final Rule on Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Surface Coating and Wood Furniture Manufacturing Emissions
EPA has published a final rule finalizing the residual risk and technology review conducted for the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for Shipbuilding and Ship Repair (Surface Coating) and Wood Furniture Manufacturing Operations. The final rule became effective November 21, 2011. http://www.gpo.
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EPA Final Rule on Primary Lead Processing Emissions
EPA has published a final rule concerning the residual risk and technology review conducted for the Primary Lead Processing source category regulated under national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP).
Read more >
EPA Approves Alternatives to Hydrofluorocarbons in Freezers
From EPA –
December 14, 2011
First time that hydrocarbon substitutes will be widely used in the U.S.
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has added three hydrocarbons as acceptable alternatives in household and small commercial refrigerators and freezers through EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program.
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GAO Stuff
Environmental Protection Agency: Actions Needed to Improve Planning, Coordination, and Leadership of EPA Laboratories, by Dave C. Trimble, director, Natural Resources and Environment, before the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment, House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. GAO-12-236T, November 17. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Commends NIOSH for NAOSHW Report
In a letter to Director John Howard, ASSE commended NIOSH for the publication of its National Assessment of the Occupational Safety and Health Workforce report (http://www.cdc.
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NIOSH on the NAOSHW Report
From NIOSH –
National Assessment of the Occupational Safety and Health Workforce Released
A national survey and assessment of the occupational safety and health workforce has been completed by Westat under contract with NIOSH.
Read more >
Tales from DC: OSHA Stakeholders Meeting on Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss
On November 3, Tom Cecich, VP for CoPA, represented ASSE at OSHA’s “Conversation with Stakeholders: Preventing Hearing Loss” held in response to the Agency’s withdrawal of its economic feasibility interpretation concerning employers’ responsibility to provide engineering controls.
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Efforts to Ensure Qualified Fed OSH Professionals Advance
A too often overlooked issue in occupational safety and health are the qualifications of those responsible for managing safety, health and environmental risks on a worksite.
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ASSE Announces Approval of PtD Voluntary Consensus Standard
From NIOSH –
The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) recently announced the approval of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASSE Z590.3 standard, “Prevention through Design: Guidelines for Addressing Occupational Risks in Design and Redesign Processes.
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ASSE Website Hosts NIOSH PtD Conference Presentations
From NIOSH –
Prevention through Design—a new way of doing business: a report on the National Initiative on August 22 – 24, 2011 at the Omni Shoreham hotel in Washington, DC. ASSE was a sponsor of the event.
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Howard Outlines PtD Efforts
If you have not seen it, NIOSH Director John Howard in the October e-NEWS outlined the various efforts NIOSH and others are undertaking to champion safety through its Prevention through Design (PtD) initiative, including ASSE’s new voluntary consensus standard.
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FACOSH to Meet December 1
From OSHA –
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will hold a meeting of the Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH) Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, in Washington, D.C. The Secretary of Labor recently renewed the council’s charter for another two years.
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OSHA and NIOSH Collaborate on New Nail Gun Safety Resource
From OSHA and NIOSH –
NIOSH and OSHA are pleased to announce the release of Nail Gun Safety: A Guide for Construction Contractors. While nail guns may boost productivity, they also cause tens of thousands of painful injuries each year.
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CSB Finds Explosions at Oil and Gas Production Sites Put the Public at Risk
From CSB –
Hattiesburg, MS, October 27, 2011 – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) today released a new study of explosions at oil and gas production sites across the U.S.
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Tales from DC: House Hearing on Ensuring a Responsible Reg Environment
From the Office of Adele Abrams, Esq.
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OSHA Announces 2011 Top Ten Citations
From OSHA –
OSHA announced the top ten most frequently cited standards following inspections of worksites by federal OSHA during FY 2011. The Scaffolding and Fall Protection standards in Construction were the top two most cited, maintaining their positions from FY 2010.
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NTSB Recommends FMCSA Ban Use of Cell Phones in Trucks
In a Highway Accident Report for a March 2010 truck-tractor semitrailer median crossover collision with a 15-passenger van in Munfordville, KY, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended the following to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) –
“Prohibit the use of both handheld and hands-free cellular tele
OSHA Modifies Guidance on Use of Particular Shock Absorbing Lanyard
OSHA’s memo explaining the modified guidance can be found at http://www.osha.gov/doc/interpretations/I20110822.html.
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OSHA Offers New Publication on Trench Collapses
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA has three new guidance products to educate employers and workers about the hazards in trenching operations.
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New OSHA Resources from Office of Cooperative Programs
OSHA has issued the following new or updated Web pages and publications containing compliance assistance resources:
Web Pages:
§ Marine Hanging Staging section of Shipyard Employment eTool (Oct. 2011)
§ Seasonal Flu Web page (Oct.
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EPA and National Archive Hold Student Multimedia Contest
From EPA –
WASHINGTON – The National Archives in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced the launch of a student multimedia contest, “Document Your Environment”.
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EPA Webinar to Help Industry on TSCA Chemical Data Reporting
From EPA –
EPA will host a webinar to assist industry with the reporting process for the 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) rule on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM EST. The webinar is intended for industry stakeholders who will be reporting in response to the CDR requirements.
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EPA Seeks Comment on Disposing Coal Combustion Residuals
EPA invites comment on additional information it obtained in conjunction with the proposed rule: Hazardous and Solid Waste Management System: Identification and Listing of Special Wastes; Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities that was published in the Federal Register on June 21, 2010 (75 FR 35127).
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Hawaii State Plan No Longer Covering Military Installations
OSHA has approved a change to Hawaii’s occupational safety and health state plan to exclude coverage of private sector employers and employees at all military installations.
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Michigan OSHA Stops Covering Indian Tribes
OSHA has approved a change to the state of Michigan’s occupational safety and health state plan to exclude coverage of establishments on Indian reservations which are owned or operated by employers who are enrolled members of Indian tribes.
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OSHA Updates Grain Handling Topics Page
From the Office of Cooperative Programs –
As part of our efforts to keep OSHA’s cooperative program participants informed of the agency’s activities, I wanted to let you know that OSHA has updated its Grain Handling Safety and Health Topics Page with new statistics and updated information on preventing grain dust explosions.
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OSHA Offers New Construction Safety Videos
From the Office of Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has issued 12 educational videos about hazards in the construction industry. Each video presents a worksite incident based on actual accidents that resulted in worker injury or death, followed by a summary of corrective actions for preventing these types of accidents.
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Gulf Coast Task Force Releases Ecosystem Restoration Strategy for Review
From EPA, October 5 –
Agenda outlines blueprint for reversing decline of Gulf Coast ecosystem
WASHINGTON - The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force, chaired by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P.
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GAO Stuff
EPA Health Risk Assessments: Oversight and Sustained Management Key to Overcoming Challenges, GAO-12-148T, October 6 (12 pages) http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-148T
Climate Monitoring: NOAA Can Improve Management of the U.S. Historical Climatology Network. GAO-11-800, August 31. http://www.gao.
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ASSE Says Latest BLS Workplace Fatalities Report Should Be a Call to Action
In response to BLS data BLS data showing little change in workplace fatalities between 2009 and 2010, ASSE President Terrrie Norris issued the call to action below, pointing out the variety of efforts ASSE is undertaking to take a new and different approach to improving worker safety and health.
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ASSE Urges OIRA to Let OSHA Silica Rulemaking Move Forward So All Stakeholders Can Be Heard
In a letter to Cass Sunstein, Administrator of the Office of Management and Budget’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the White House, ASSE urged his office to do everything possible to advance OSHA rulemaking on Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica so that ASSE’s members can play a meaningful part in seeing that
ASSE Comments on Proposed OSHA Reporting Changes
In a comment for the record, ASSE said it could not support proposed changes to OSHA’s fatality and hospitalization reporting rules from the current requirement that employers report within 8 hours fatalities and in-patient hospitalizations of 3 or more employees to 1 or more employees and to add the requirements that amputations b
CSP Recognized in California Standards
The Certified Safety Professional is being recognized in California’s OSH standards. According to an ASSE member familiar with the issue, “The issue was raised by an ASSE member CSP…It merely defined CSP as one certified by the BCSP, not the National Speakers Association, who also issues CSP designations to Certified Speaking Professionals.
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OSHA Issues New Whistleblower Investigations Manual
From OSHA –
September 21, 2011
WASHINGTON – The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration released a new edition of its Whistleblower Investigations Manual, one of a series of measures to improve OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program that were announced in August.
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BOEMRE Releases Report on Deep Horizon
On September 14, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) and the US Coast Guard Joint Investigation Team issued their report casting blame for the Deep Horizon oil spill and the deaths of 11 workers. BOEMRE’s press release for the report can be found at http://www.boemre.gov/ooc/press/2011/press0914.htm.
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Wright and Wark Complete Terms at CSB
From CSB –
Statement by CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso Congratulating Board Members William Wright and William Wark on Completion of Their Terms
September 23, 2011 – Today I wish to applaud William E. Wright and William B. Wark on their five year terms as CSB Board Members, which were completed yesterday.
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OSHA Awards $10.7 Million in Harwood Training Grants
From OSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today awarded $10.
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OSHA Issues Directive on Workplace Violence
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has issued a directive called Enforcement Procedures for Investigating or Inspecting Incidents of Workplace Violence (OSHA Instruction CPL 02-01-052, Sep. 8, 2011).
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MSHA Proposes Rule on Proximity Detection Systems for Continuous Mining Machines in Underground Coal Mines
MSHA is proposing to require underground coal mine operators to equip continuous mining machines (except full-face continuous mining machines) with proximity detection systems.
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Obama on Withdrawal of Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards
In the news has been the Administration’s withdrawal of draft ozone national ambient air quality standards. Below is the President’s full statement on that action, which can be found at http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/09/02/statement-president-ozone-national-ambient-air-quality-standards.
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OSHA Issues Hazard Alert on Formaldehyde Dangers to Hair Salon Workers
From OSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued a revised hazard alert to hair salon owners and workers about potential formaldehyde exposure from working with certain hair smoothing and straightening products.
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DoT Proposes Banning Electronic Cigarettes on Aircraft
The Department of Transportation is proposing to amend its existing airline smoking rule to explicitly ban the use of electronic cigarettes on all aircraft in scheduled passenger interstate, intrastate and foreign air transportation.
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Interstate Chemical Threats Workgroup Reaches Out
From ICTW –
The Interstate Chemical Threats Workgroup was formed in 2002, following the events of 9/11. The workgroups purpose is to share knowledge, materials and resources on chemical threats and to promote cross-disciplinary awareness in chemical preparedness.
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OSHA Posts Educational Video on Preventing Fatal Falls in Residential Construction
From OSHA –
OSHA’s narrated Residential Fall Protection slide presentation is the latest compliance assistance tool available to help the residential construction industry comply with the requirements of the agency’s Fall Protection standard.
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New York DoL to Hold Safe Patient Handling Conference
From OSHA –
The New York Department of Labor’s Division of Safety and Health is cosponsoring the 5th annual Safe Patient Handling Conference October 18-19 at the Albany Marriott Hotel in Albany, NY.
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PHMSA on Compatibility with IAEA Radioactive Material Regs
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), in coordination with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), is proposing to amend requirements in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) governing the transportation of Class 7 (radioactive) materials based on recent changes contained in the International Atomic Energy Agency
FMCSA Says Fed Safety Regs Not Applicable to Farm Vehicles
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sought public comment on three issues related to the applicability of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to operators of farm vehicles, including the interpretation of interstate commerce as it applies to movement of farm products; whether farmers operating under share-cro
PHMSA Safety Notice on Transport of DoT Special Permit Packages
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a safety notice alerting the regulated community to the importance of adhering to federal requirements when offering and transporting hazardous materials in DOT Special Permit (SP) packages.
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FMCSA Final Rule on Saddle-Mount Braking Requirements
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to eliminate the requirement for operational brakes on the last saddle-mounted truck or tractor in a triple saddle-mount combination, except when a full mount is present.
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GAO Stuff on Drugs in Drinking Water to Homeland Security
Environmental Health: Action Needed to Sustain Agencies’ Collaboration on Pharmaceuticals in Drinking Water, GAO-11-346, August 8 (57 pages) http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-11-346 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d11346high.
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ASSE President Norris Comments on Flat BLS Fatality Data
The Bureau of Labor Statistics data can be found at http://bls.gov/news.release/cfoi.nr0.htm.
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF SAFETY ENGINEERS SAY THE JUST-RELEASED FATAL OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES REPORT FOR 2010 SHOULD BE A CALL TO ACTION
DES PLAINES, IL (August 30, 2011) – The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) sees the release of the U.S.
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Tales from DC: ASSE at OSHA Infectious Disease Stakeholder Meeting
On Friday, July 29, Joe Klancher represented ASSE at OSHA’s Stakeholder Meeting on Occupational Exposure to Infectious Disease held at the Department of Labor in Washington, DC. Joe is the Administrator of ASSE’s Healthcare Practice Specialty. Joe participated in the morning session of the two-part meeting held July 29.
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NIOSH Seeks Comments on Carcinogens and RELs
NIOSH has published a notice stating it intends to review its approach to classifying carcinogens and establishing recommended exposure limits (RELs) for occupational exposures to hazards associated with cancer.
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OSHA Issues Directive on Corporatewide Settlements
From OSHA –
OSHA issued a new compliance directive June 22 that updates the agency’s directive for administering Corporate-Wide Settlement Agreements (CSAs) with employers.
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DoL Unveils Enhanced Enforcement Database
The new data base can be found at http://ogesdw.dol.gov/.
From Department of Labor –
US Department of Labor improves enforcement database
Updated site includes increased search capabilities and visual enhancements
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
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OSHA Strengthening Whistleblower Program
OSHA has released a report at http://www.whistleblowers.gov/cover_memo.html documenting an internal review of its Whistleblower Protection Program that calls for a variety of changes to the program –
Aug. 1, 2011
WASHINGTON – In a continuing effort to improve the Whistleblower Protection Program, the U.S.
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OSHA Issues Hazard Alert on Worker Engulfment and Suffocation in Grain Bins
From OSHA –
Aug. 17, 2011
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a
Hazard Alert and an illustrated hazard wallet card explaining the dangers of working inside grain storage bins.
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OSHA Releases Mobile App to Protect Workers from Heat
From OSHA –
August 11, 2011
SANDY, Utah – As part of continuing educational efforts by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration about the dangers of extreme heat, Secretary of Labor Hilda L.
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NIOSH NORA 2011 Symposium Highlights
From the Director’s Desk, John Howard, M.D., August eNews 2011—
Highlights From the NORA 2011 Symposium: Achieving Impact Through Research and Partnerships
In July, the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) community hosted a symposium on achieving impact through research and partnerships.
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DoL Proposes Changes to Improve Safety for Child Ag Workers
From Department of Labor at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/whd/WHD20111250.htm
[08/31/2011]
US Labor Department proposes updates to child labor regulations
Aims to improve safety of young workers employed in agriculture and related fields
WASHINGTON — The U.S.
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NIOSH Seeks Comments on NORA Processes
From NIOSH –
As NORA reaches the halfway point of its second decade, NIOSH is conducting a review of the processes of NORA to learn how adjustments can be made to maximize outcomes through 2016. We are interested in your comments on NORA processes, activities and accomplishments, and suggestions for the future.
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NIOSH NORA Manufacturing Sector Conference September 7-8 in Cincinnati
From NIOSH –
The NORA Manufacturing Sector Conference will be held September 7–8 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The purpose of the conference is to serve as a national call for action to identify and develop partnerships to improve occupational safety and health in manufacturing.
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NIOSH Manual Materials Handling Workshop October 11-12 in Cincinnati
From NIOSH –
Join NIOSH for the upcoming Manual Materials Handling Workshop: Matching Solutions to Problems, October 11–12, at the Hyatt Regency in Cincinnati, Ohio.
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DOE Seeks Comments on Collaborative Worker Safety and Health Training Document
From NIEHS –
The Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Training Center (NTC), within the Office of Health, Safety and Security (HSS), teamed with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), and the Volpentest HAMMER Training and Education Center (HAMMER) to establish a model for collaborative safety training across DOE
Follow NIOSH FACE Program on Twitter
Like a lot of NIOSH programs, its Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) program is now on Twitter. The program identifies and investigates work situations at high risk for injury and then formulates and disseminates prevention strategies to help SH&E professionals and others to intervene in the workplace.
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FRA Final Rule on Railroad Employee Hours of Service
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a final rule amending its hours of service recordkeeping regulations to add substantive hours of service regulations, including maximum onduty periods, minimum off-duty periods, and other limitations, for train employees (e.g.
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EPA Proposes Emission Standards for Aircraft Engines
EPA has issued a proposed rule proposing several new NOX emission standards, compliance flexibilities, and other regulatory requirements for aircraft turbofan or turbojet engines with rated thrusts greater than 26.7 kilonewtons (kN).
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EPA Criteria for Evaluating Human and Environmental Effects under DfE Program
From EPA –
The Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics has posted final criteria for evaluating human and environmental effects under EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE) Alternatives Assessment program.
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PHMSA Notice on Damage to Pipeline Facilities Caused by Flooding
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an
advisory bulletin to all owners and operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipelines to
communicate the potential for damage to pipeline facilities caused by severe flooding.
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EPA Seeks Comment on Policy to Ensure Scientific Integrity
From EPA –
August 5, 2011
EPA Releases Draft Policy for Ensuring Scientific Integrity
Agency seeking public comment
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today is releasing its draft Scientific Integrity Policy for public comment.
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Administration Proposes Fuel Standards for Trucks and Buses
From EPA –
August 9, 2011
White House Announces First Ever Oil Savings Standards for Heavy Duty Trucks, Buses
Saving $50 billion in fuel costs and over 500 million barrels of oil
WASHINGTON – Today, President Obama will meet with industry officials to discuss the first-of-their-kind fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas pollution standards for w
September is OSH Month in Illinois
From NIOSH –
Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn recently proclaimed September 2011 as Occupational Health and Safety Month to recognize the importance of the first national conference on Eliminating Health and Safety Disparities at Work, September 14–15 in Chicago, co-sponsored by NIOSH.
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PHMSA ANPRM on Safety of Gas Transmission Pipelines
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) on whether changes are needed to the regulations governing the safety of gas transmission pipelines.
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GAO Stuff on Climate Engineering, Haz Waste and Cost of Enviro Litigation
Climate Engineering: Technical Status, Future Directions, and Potential Responses. GAO-11-71, July 28. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-11-71 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d1171high.pdf Podcast – http://www.gao.gov/podcast/watchdog_episode_69.
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ASSE Backs CSB Rebuke of Florida on Public Sector Protections
ASSE Press Release –
�
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF SAFETY ENGINEERS AGREE WITH FED AGENCY’S REBUKE OF FLORIDA FOR FAILING TO ACT ON PUBLIC SECTOR EMPLOYEE SAFETY
DES PLAINES, IL (July 20, 2011) – The American
Michaels Speaks, the EU Listens
Last week, Assistant Secretary for OSHA David Michaels spoke to the European Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs in Brussels, Belgium. One of the points he made was about working more closely with Europe in dealing with global worker safety issues. See the speech at http://www.dol.
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CSB Tells Florida Its Response to Recommendations on 2006 Daytona Beach Explosion Unacceptable
From CSB –
CSB Declares Florida’s Failure to Adopt CSB Recommendation on Protecting Public Workers “Unacceptable;” Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso asks State to Reconsider Legislation
Washington, DC, July 18, 2011 – The U.S.
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ASSE Backs CSB Action on Florida Failure to Protect Public Sector Workers
ASSE Press Release –
American Society of Safety Engineers News
Protecting people, property and the environment since 1911
For Immediate Release Contact
OSHA Seeks Nominations to FACOSH
The Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA has invited interested parties to submit
nominations for membership on the Federal Advisory Committee for Occupational
Safety and Health (FACOSH), which advises the Assistant Secretary on federal
employer safety and health. Nominations are due September 6, 2011.
http://www.gpo.
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OSHA Revises Commercial Diving Directive
From OSHA at http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.
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PHMSA on Enforcement Proceedings Involving an Informal Hearing
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is notifying operators
of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities of the creation of a dedicated
``Presiding Official'' for informal pipeline enforcement hearings and the process
operators can expect when requesting an informal hearing.
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DoL Releases Spring 2011 Reg Agenda
The Department of Labor has released its Spring, 2011 Regulatory Agenda, listing the rules and regulations which agencies plan take actions on in the next 12 months.
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I2P2: Howard on the California Experience
In the current discussion over OSHA’s efforts to advance rulemaking on an injury and illness prevention program (I2P2) standard, former Cal OSHA Chief and current NIOSH Director John Howard has given presentations on California’s experience with an I2P2 standard. On July 15, Dr.
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CSB Calls for Tighter Toxic Gas Handling
From CSB –
CSB Investigation Finds Three DuPont Accidents in Belle, West Virginia, Resulted from Numerous Safety Deficiencies including Lack of Safe Equipment Design, Ineffective Mechanical Integrity Programs, and Incomplete Investigations of Previous Near Misses
Proposed Recommendations to Call for OSHA, Industry Groups to Tighten Safeguards for
OSHA Issues Hazard Alert on Scissor Lifts
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has issued a hazard alert about the dangers of using scissor lifts to film events. A scissor lift is a portable, hydraulic-powered lift with a platform that can be raised into the air directly above the base.
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OSHA Issues New Corporate-Wide Settlement Agreements Directive
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA issued a new compliance directive June 22 that updates the agency’s directive for administering Corporate-Wide Settlement Agreements (CSAs) with employers.
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OSHA and FDA Sign MOU
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA signed a memorandum of understanding June 16 with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizing the importance of close cooperation and collaboration between the FDA and OSHA–two enforcement agencies responsible for preventing injuries and illnesses.
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OSHA 4-State Local Emphasis Program on Powered Industrial Trucks
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA recently initiated Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs) in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi focused on reducing fatalities and serious injuries related to powered industrial trucks.
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Tales from DC: NACOSH Meeting June 22
From Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE's Federal Representative --
On June 22, 2011, I represented ASSE at a meeting of the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety & Health (NACOSH) at OSHA headquarters. There were a few handouts, which have been scanned and sent via email.
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PHMSA Revises List of Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a final rule amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations by removing saccharin and its salts from the list of hazardous substances and reportable quantities.
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GAO on Biofuels, Safe Water
Biofuels: Challenges to the Transportation, Sale, and Use of Intermediate Ethanol Blends. GAO-11-513, June 3. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-11-513 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d11513high.
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In 100th Year of Safety, ASSE Offers OSH Reform Legislative Proposal
In the 100th year of ASSE and modern occupational safety, ASSE offered leaders of the key U.S. Senate and House of Representative committees responsible for workplace safety and health oversight draft legislation to address needed reforms in federal law to help improve U.S. workplace safety and health.
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Secretary Solis Congratulates ASSE on 100th Anniversary
In a video played first at the opening session of Safety 2011 in Chicago, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis congratulated ASSE on its 100th Anniversary, noting OSHA’s 40th Anniversary, ASSE’s alliance and the shared goal of the Department of Labor, OSHA and ASSE in helping make sure all jobs are safe jobs.
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ASSE Backs FY 2012 MSHA Budget Request
ASSE expressed support for MSHA’s $384.3 FY 2012 budget request in a letter to House Appropriations Committee leaders. “We believe that safety in mines will be enhanced not by ‘less MSHA’ but by ‘a better MSHA,’” the letter stated.
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North Carolina ASSE Members Urge Senator Hagan to Back VPP Bill
A letter on behalf of ASSE’s members in North Carolina urges Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC) to join in sponsoring the Voluntary Protection Program Act (S. 807), a bill to place OSHA’s Voluntary Protectiion Program into the Occupational Safety and Health Act, ensuring that OSHA will continue the program.
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Dawn of New Leadership in Safety Research at NIOSH
The following is a June 27 email from NIOSH Director John Howard –
It is my pleasure to announce that Ms. Dawn Castillo has accepted the position of the Director of the NIOSH Division of Safety Research (DSR), effective July 3, 2011.
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OSHA’s Standards Improvement Project Final Rule
OSHA has published the final rule for Phase III of its Standards Improvement Project (SIP-III), the third in a
series of rulemaking actions to improve and streamline OSHA standards. SIP removes or revises individual
requirements within rules that are confusing, outdated, duplicative, or inconsistent.
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DoL Seeks Comment on Preliminary Plan to Reduce Reg Burden
The Department of Labor (DOL) prepared a preliminary plan to review its existing
significant regulations and has published a notice to invite comment on the plan. On
January 18, 2011, President Obama issued Executive Order 13563, ``Improving Regulation
and Regulatory Review.
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OSHA Proposed Rule on Recordkeeping
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has issued a proposed rule to revise two aspects of the agency’s recordkeeping and reporting requirements for work-related injuries and illnesses.
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Law Passed in Last Congress Advances Safety Professionalism
In the last days of the last Congress, the Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010 (FBPTA) was passed into law (PL 111-308). You can find the bill at http://www.tisp.org/tisp/file/Federal%20Buildings%20Personnel%20Act.pdf.
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MSHA Publishes Rock Dust Final Rule
From MSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today announced that a final rule will be published June 21 in the Federal Register on the maintenance of the incombustible content of rock dust.
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Tales from DC: Education and Workforce Hearing on OSHA and State Plans
From the Law Offices of Adele Abrams, Esq.
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OSHA Announces 3-Month Enforcement Phase-In for Residential Fall Protection
From OSHA –
OSHA announced June 9 a three-month enforcement phase-in period to allow residential construction employers to come into compliance with the agency’s new directive to provide residential construction workers with fall protection.
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OSHA Seeks Applications for $4.7 Million in Harwood Safety and Health Training Grants
From OSHA –
OSHA is soliciting applications for $4.7 million in Susan Harwood Safety and Health Training Grants. The grants are available to nonprofit organizations to provide safety and health training and education for workers and employers.
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Report from June 7 FACOSH Meeting
From OSHA –
The Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH) met June 7 to discuss safety and health issues of importance to federal agencies. During the meeting, the Emerging Issues subcommittee reported to FACOSH members on their progress in reviewing the existing permissible exposure limits for hazardous substances.
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MSHA Holding Upper Big Branch Public Briefing June 29
From MSHA –
MSHA News Release: [06/23/2011]
US Labor Department’s MSHA to hold June 29 public briefing
on investigation of Upper Big Branch Mine explosion
ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S.
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EPA Releases Databases of Chemical Toxicity and Exposure Data
From EPA –
June 15, 2011
Searchable databases on chemical toxicity and exposure data now available– The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making it easier to find data about chemicals.
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OSHA Revises Outreach Training Program Requirements
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has revised the requirements and procedures for its voluntary Outreach Training Program to improve the quality of classes and ensure the integrity of authorized trainers.
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EPA Proposes Pesticide Nano Policy
From EPA –
June 9, 2011
EPA Proposes Policy on Nanoscale Materials in Pesticide Products
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today it plans to obtain information on nanoscale materials in pesticide products.
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EPA Removes Confidentiality for 150+ Chemicals
From EPA –
June 8, 2011
EPA Removes Confidentiality Claims for More Than 150 Chemicals
Part of continuing effort to protect Americans’ health by increasing access to chemical information
WASHINGTON – In order to ensure the public has as much information as possible about the health and the environmental impacts of chemicals, the U.S.
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NIOSH Calls for Hearing Loss Prevention Awards Nominations
From NIOSH –
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012 Safe-in-Sound Excellence in Hearing Loss Prevention Awards.™ The awards are given by NIOSH in partnership with the National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA) to recognize excellence in hearing loss prevention. The deadline for self-nominations is September 1, 2011.
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Register for NIOSH Eliminating Health and Safety Disparities at Work Conference
From NIOSH –
Registration is now open for a two-day conference on occupational health and safety disparities, which will be held in Chicago, Illinois.
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NIOSH Extends Abstract Deadline for NORA Manufacturing Conference
From NIOSH –
The NORA Manufacturing Sector Council will be accepting abstracts for presentations and posters through June 30 for the NORA Manufacturing Sector Conference, September 7–8, Hyatt Regency, in Cincinnati, Ohio. http://www.team-psa.com/NORAMNF2011/aboutNora.
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PHMSA HazMat Final Rule on Storing Explosives During Transportation
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a final rule in coordination with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) approving the use of the National Fire Protection Association Standard (NFPA) 498–Standard for Safe Havens and Interchange Lots for Vehicles Transporting Explosives (2010
PHMSA Safety Advisory on Unauthorized Marking of Compressed Gas Cylinders
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a notice advising the public that PHMSA has recently confirmed an undetermined number of certain (aluminum) cylinders were improperly marked and represented as DOT specification 3AL cylinders.
Read more >
New MSHA Training Tools on Miner Rights and Responsibilities
From MSHA –
[06/23/2011]
New MSHA training tools address miners’ rights and responsibilities
ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S.
Read more >
ASSE Supports FY 2012 Budget Request for OSHA
In a letter to House Appropriations Committee leaders, ASSE stated its support for the Administration’s FY 2012 budget request for OSHA. If adopted, the $583.4 million request would give the agency a 4.3 percent increase over OSHA’s FY 2010 budget.
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Bipartisan Effort to Codify VPP Backed by ASSE
Bipartisan legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate and House to place OSHA’s Voluntary Protectiion Program (VPP) into law and ensure the program’s future has received ASSE’s support. In letters to Senators Enzi and Landrieu for S 807 and Representatives Petri and Green for HR 1511, ASSE expressed its strong support for VPP.
Read more >
ASSE Government Affairs Committee’s Annual Capitol Hill Visits
ASSE’s Government Affairs Committee (GAC) met in Washington DC May 1-3 in conjunction with NAOSH Week for a meeting and to conduct its annual Capitol Hill Visits.
Read more >
Weigh in on Proposed Administration Cuts to NIOSH
Repeating the message from previous GA Updates and a blast to all ASSE members, it’s by no means too late to tell Congress how you feel about the Obama Administration’s proposal to cut NIOSH’s Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing research program and support for Educational Resource Centers. Go to http://www.asse.org/en/index.
Read more >
Regulatory Reform and OSHA
OSH news sources and blogs have been busily discussing the Administration’s recent efforts to engage in regulatory reform. The lead for this effort has been taken by Cass Sunstein, Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the White House.
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OSHA Reopens Record for Comment on Ergo 300 Column Rulemaking
OSHA has reopened the rulemaking record to allow interested persons,
particularly small businesses, to comment on the information gathered
and on issues raised during the small business teleconferences that
OSHA and the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy
co-sponsored on April 11-12, 2011.
Read more >
Tales from DC: March 17 House Appropriations Hearing
From Gary Visscher of The Law Office of Adele Abrams, ASSE’s Federal Representative:
On behalf of ASSE, on March 17, 2011 I attended the hearing of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education and Related Agencies , where Secretary of Labor Solis testified on the Administration’s proposed 2012 budget for the Department
NIOSH Seeks Comments on Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation/Prevention Program
From NIOSH –
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is seeking stakeholder input on the progress and future directions of the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program (FFFIPP). Since its initiation in 1998, NIOSH has sought public input to help plan and direct the goals and objectives of the FFFIPP.
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New OSHA Online Tool to Help with Recordkeeping
From OSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued the OSHA Recordkeeping Advisor (http://www.dol.gov/elaws/OSHARecordkeeping.htm), a new Web tool to help employers understand their responsibilities to report and record work-related injuries and illnesses.
Read more >
MSHA Releases Upper Big Branch Mine Investigation Interview Transcripts
From MSHA –
ARLINGTON, Va. - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today released 25 transcripts of witness interviews from the investigation of the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion that occurred in April 2010.
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US District Court Backs OSHA Subpoena of Insurer in Grain Engulfment Case
From OSHA at http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=NEWS_RELEASES&p_id=19815
CHICAGO – A U.S. district court has upheld a subpoena issued by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration requesting documents from Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Co.
Read more >
New OSHA Region 6 Administrator
From OSHA –
John M. Hermanson was recently named regional administrator for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Region 6, which encompasses the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
Read more >
New OSHA Worker Rights Products in Chinese and Vietnamese/Young Worker Bookmark
From OSHA Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has issued several new outreach products on worker rights. These include a new Vietnamese version of the “We Are OSHA – We Can Help” flyer and new Chinese versions of the Workers’ Rights Wallet Card (horizontal). You can find these products on the Workers’ Rights Outreach (http://www.
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Free NIOSH Hearing Protection Publication
A soft cover copy of NIOSH’s ‘State of the Art in Hearing Protection’ is available for free if you email your mailing address to rrd1@cdc.gov. This is the March-April 2011 issue of a bi-monthly inter-disciplinary journal. More info can be found at www.noiseandhealth.org.
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CDC Says US Vehicle Crash Deaths Cost $41 Billion
From CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/p0511_crashdeathcosts.html
CDC Finds Annual Estimated Cost of U.S.
Read more >
MSHA Holds Public Hearings on Underground Coal Work Area Exams/PoV Rulemaking
MSHA has announced it will hold four public hearings on the Agency's
proposed rules for Examinations of Work Areas in Underground Coal Mines
(Examinations of Work Areas) and for Pattern of Violations. Each
hearing will cover the major issues raised by commenters in response
to the respective proposed rules.
Read more >
EPA Significant New Use Rule on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
EPA has issued a significant new use rule (SNUR) under the Toxic
Substances Control Act (TSCA) for the chemical substance identified
generically as multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT).
Read more >
FCSMA Finale Rule on CDL License Testing/Permit Standards
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has amended
its commercial driver's license (CDL) knowledge and skills testing
standards and established new minimum federal standards for states to
issue the commercial learner's permit (CLP).
Read more >
FMCSA Final Rule on Hours of Service Exception for Railroad Signal Employees
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) amended its
hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to adopt regulatory language
consistent with the statutory exemption for certain railroad signal
employees operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in connection
with railroad signal work.
Read more >
NIOSH Study on Impact of Business Cycle on Workplace Injuries
From NIOSH –
A recent NIOSH study published in the Journal of Safety Research identified cyclically sensitive sectors and explored potential mechanisms through which the business cycle affected the incidence of nonfatal workplace injuries across different sectors.
Read more >
NIOSH Seeks Comments on Preventing Respiratory Diseases from Dampness in Buildings
NIOSH is asking for public comment on a NIOSH Alert: Preventing Occupational Respiratory Disease from Dampness in Office Buildings, Schools, and other Nonindustrial Buildings. The alert’s purpose is to give workers and employers guidance for respiratory disease prevention and appropriate environmental response to damp building conditions.
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OSHA Surveys Employers to Better Design Rules and Outreach
From OSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has launched a survey of private sector employers as a tool toward better designing future rules, compliance assistance and outreach efforts.
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OSH in CDC Health Scientists’ 10 Great Public Health Achievements
The CDC, in the May 20 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6019a5.htm) has published a list of the 10 great public health achievements occurring in the last decade, between 2001-2010, of which occupational safety is one.
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OSHA Issues Memo on VPP Incentives
Assistant Secretary David Michaels in April issued a memorandum outlining Agency policy and procedures for the review of incentive programs at VPP worksites.
Read more >
PHMSA Advisory on Annual Report Deadline for Gas
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
issued an advisory bulletin advising owners and operators of gas
transmission and gathering systems and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
facilities that they have until August 15, 2011, to submit their
Calendar Year 2010 Annual Reports.
Read more >
FACOSH June 7 Meeting, Member Appointment Announced
OSHA’s Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health
(FACOSH) will meet June 7, 2011, at the Department of Labor in
Washington, DC. Also, Secretary Solis appointed Edward A.
Hamilton, Sr., U.S. Department of Justice, to complete an unexpired
term on FACOSH.
http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-05-18/html/2011-12190.
Read more >
PHMSA Meetings on Pipeline Seam Welds/Improving Risk Assessment and Recordkeeping
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
announced public meetings to address recent pipeline incidents
involving seam weld anomalies, gaps in data and recordkeeping and
driving a stronger focus on better managing these challenges.
Read more >
PHMSA Applies Safety Regs to All Rural Onshore Hazardous Liquid Low-Stress Lines
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
published a final rule amending its pipeline safety regulations to
apply safety regulation to rural low-stress hazardous liquid pipelines
not covered previously by safety regulations.
Read more >
New Law Regulating Handling of Toxic Drugs in Washington State
Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire has signed into law a bill (SB 5594) to regulate the handling of hazardous drugs.
Read more >
Federal OSH Agencies Fare Well in New CR – EPA Slashed
In the latest Continuing Resolution for the remainder of FY 2011, the April 11 deal that is now up for a vote in Congress nearly $40 billion is cut from the federal budget through September. EPA is cut 16%, one of the biggest percentage cuts in the whole bill, $1.6 billion less than FY 2010.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Guidance On Fall Protection In Residential Construction
To help comply with its December directive, OSHA has issued new guidance on fall protection in residential construction to help employers prevent fall-related injuries and deaths. Find it at http://www.osha.gov/doc/guidance.html.
Read more >
Weigh in on NIOSH Cuts
Repeating the message from the previous GA Update and a blast to all ASSE members, it’s by no means too late to tell Congress how you feel about the Obama Administration’s proposal to cut NIOSH’s Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing research program and support for Educational Resource Centers. Go to http://www.asse.org/en/index.
Read more >
CSB Budget Request Gets ASSE Support
ASSE stated its support for the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board’s (CSB) FY 2012 budget request of $12.8 million in letters to Senate and House leaders of the Appropriations Subcommittees on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies.
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ASSE Supports Member Jones for CSB
In a letter to the White House, ASSE stated its support for Jerry L. Jones, a member, to be nominated to the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board.
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ASSE Comments on MSHA PoV Proposed Rule
ASSE submitted comments on the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s Proposed Rule Pattern of Violation (PoV) intended to strengthen MSHA’s ability to find that a mine has a recurring pattern of violations requiring heightened oversight by MSHA.
Read more >
Federal OSH Agencies Fare Well in New CR – EPA Slashed
In the latest Continuing Resolution for the remainder of FY 2011, the April 11 deal that is now up for a vote in Congress nearly $40 billion is cut from the federal budget through September. EPA is cut 16%, one of the biggest percentage cuts in the whole bill, $1.6 billion less than FY 2010.
Read more >
Democrats and Republicans Join in Seeking Codification of VPP
Senators Michael Enzi (R-WY) and Mary Landrieu (D-LA) [S 807] and Representatives Thomas Petri (R-WI) and Gene Green (R-TX) (HR 1511] have introduced bipartisan legislation that would put into law OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program. Senator Enzi’s statement on introduction can be found at http://drownehs.com/Documents/VPP%20Act%20statement.
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House Democrats Reintroduce Byrd Mine Safety Bill
House Democrats reintroduced the Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act. ASSE commented on the bill last year. The following is a summary from Democrats on the House Committee on Education and the Wokforce, available at http://democrats.edworkforce.house.gov/blog/2011/04/robert-c-byrd-mine-safety-prot.shtml.
The Robert C.
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Attend the NIOSH PtD Conference August 22-24 in DC
The draft agenda for the August 22-24 NIOSH conference Prevention through Design: A New Way of Doing Business – Report on the National Initiative can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/ptd/a-new-way/. The conference marks the mid-point of the PtD National Initiative.
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Attend the NIOSH NORA Symposium July 11-12
NIOSH has announced that registration is now open for the NORA Symposium 2011: Achieving Impact through Research and Partnerships to be held July 11–12 in Cincinnati OH. https://www.team-psa.com/NORA2011/aboutNora.asp.
Read more >
PHMSA Seeks Restrictions on Cell Phone Use by HazMat Drivers
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
issued a proposed rule to restrict the use of hand-held mobile
telephones, including hand-held cell phones, by drivers during the
operation of a motor vehicle containing a quantity of hazardous
materials requiring placarding under Part 172 of the 49 CFR or any
quantity of a sele
OSHA Revised Outreach Training Program
From OSHA –
OSHA revisions strengthen Outreach Training Program
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration revised its voluntary Outreach Training Program requirements and procedures to improve the quality of outreach classes and ensure the integrity of its authorized trainers.
Read more >
MSHA Inspectors Get New Online Tool to Detect Flagrant Violations
MSHA News Release: [04/19/2011]
ARLINGTON, Va. - The U.S.
Read more >
New Law Regulating Handling of Toxic Drugs in Washington State
Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire has signed into law a bill (SB 5594) to regulate the handling of hazardous drugs.
Read more >
MSHA Makes Agency Audit Results Public
MSHA announced it has posted on its website audit reports by the agency’s Office of Accountability from 2008 to 2010. A report summarizing these audits was provided to the House and Senate Appropriations committees in March 2010. MSHA’s news release can be found at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/msha/MSHA20110564.htm.
Read more >
NIOSH Study Asks If Business Cycle Affects Nonfatal Workplace Injuries
From NIOSH –
A recent NIOSH study published in the Journal of Safety Research identified cyclically sensitive sectors and explored potential mechanisms through which the business cycle affected the incidence of nonfatal workplace injuries across different sectors.
Read more >
EPA Proposes New Air Toxic Standards for Polyvinyl Chloride Production Facilities
From EPA –
April 18, 2011
Standards would cut harmful emissions that impact local communities
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
Read more >
EPA Announces Action Plans to Address MDI and TDI Risks
From EPA –
April 13, 2011
EPA Announces Actions on Two Chemicals to Reduce Harm to People
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released action plans to address the potential health risks of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and related compounds.
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NIOSH and Carcinogens
Paul Schulte, Ph.D., Director, NIOSH Education and Information Division, has written a column for NIOSH eNews laying out NIOSH’s history of addressing workplace carcinogen risks. From the introduction, “Estimates of the fraction of cancers attributable to occupation vary.
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FMCSA Updates CDL Info System State Procedures Manual
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has proposed to amend the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to incorporate by reference the most recent version of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, Inc.
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NIOSH Resource Shows Risks of Japan Radiation Dispersal
From NIOSH –
A new NIOSH Web page provides information to help workers, employers, and occupational health professionals stay informed about ongoing federal activities to address the release of airborne contamination from the damaged Japanese power plant. The page will be updated as new information becomes available. http://www.cdc.
Read more >
New Nano Safety System Tested
From NIOSH –
NIOSH researchers recently evaluated the effectiveness of a portable HEPA-filter local exhaust ventilation system as a possible tool for controlling exposure to nanoparticles from metal oxides.
Read more >
Study Details Common Teen Driving Errors in Serious Crashes
The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and State Farm Insurance Companies ® have published a study that identifies the most common errors teen drivers make leading to serious crashes. The study found a virtual tie among the top three errors –
Lack of scanning needed to detect and respond to hazards.
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CALL TO ACTION: Oppose Proposed FY ’12 Cuts to NIOSH Ag, Forestry and Fishing Program and ERCs
Please join ASSE in opposing the Obama Administration’s proposed FY 2012 budget elimination of two significant NIOSH activities - the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (AFF) Program and Educational Research Centers (ERCs).
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ASSE Opposes Administration’s Proposed FY ’12 Cuts to NIOSH Ag, Forestry & Fishing and ERCs
ASSE voiced opposition to the Obama Administration’s proposed FY 2012 budget cuts to two significant NIOSH activities - the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (AFF) Program and Educational Research Centers (ERCs).
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ASSE Opposes U.S. House Cuts to OSHA in FY 2011 Budget Battle
In a letter to the leadership of the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, ASSE stated its opposition to significant cutbacks to OSHA funding proposed in the House of Representatives’ HR 1 as a Continuing Resolution for the remainder of the federal government’s
ASSE and 110 Other Stakeholders Join to Oppose FY ’12 NIOSH Budget Cuts
In a letter to Senate and House Appropriations Subcommittee leaders, 111 Friends of NIOSH joined together to voice opposition to proposed cuts to NIOSH’s Agricultural, Forestry and Fishing program and its support for Educational Resource Centers (ERCs) contained in the Obama Administration’s FY 2012 budget proposal. http://www.asse.
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ASSE Comments on OSHA’s Interpretation of Hearing Protection Economic Feasibility
In submitting a comment on OSHA’s withdrawn Interpretation of Provisions for Feasible Administrative or Engineering Controls of Occupational Noise, ASSE said OSHA was correct in attempting to ensure that employers are appropriately recognizing the hierarchy of controls in minimizing noise risks.
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MSHA Extends POV Comment Period to April 18
MSHA has extended the comment period on the proposed rule addressing
Pattern of Violations (POV). This extension gives commenters additional
time to review and comment on the proposed rule. Comments are now
April 18, 2011. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-7975.
Read more >
DoT Announces Pipeline Safety Action Plan
From Department of Transportation at http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2011/dot4111.html
Monday, April 4, 2011
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today launched a national pipeline safety initiative to repair and replace aging pipelines to prevent potentially catastrophic incidents.
Read more >
OSHA Citation Upheld Against Wal-Mart in Crowd Management Fatality Case
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA applauds the March 25 ruling by Chief Administrative Law Judge Covette Rooney, of the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission, upholding the citation and full penalty issued to Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
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CSB Chair Urges Refiners Make Necessary Investments to Ensure Safety
Washington, DC, April 1, 2011 – Marking the one year anniversary of the tragic accident at the Tesoro Refinery in Anacortes, Washington, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released a video safety message (http://www.csb.gov/assets/news/document/Tesoro_Anniversary_-_Safety_Message_-_Final.
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Tales from the Front: March 31 Senate HELP Hearing on Mine Safety
From Adele Abram, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
Today, I represented ASSE at the hearing before the Senate HELP committee on mine safety and health issues. Although the topic was intended to focus on the one-year anniversary of the Massey Upper Big Branch (UBB) mine disaster, the discussion was more broad-ranging.
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MSHA to Hold Public Briefing June 29 on Upper Big Branch Mine Investigation
From MSHA –
ARLINGTON, Va. - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today announced that it will hold a briefing on June 29 to share with the public information gathered during the investigation of the explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine in Raleigh County, W.Va.
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MSHA Announces Results of February Impact Inspections
From MSHA –
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today announced that federal inspectors issued 166 citations and orders during special impact inspections conducted at seven coal mines and one dimension stone quarry last month.
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NIOSH Issues Asbestos Roadmap Document
From NIOSH at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/upd-03-23-11.html
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) announces the availability of “Current Intelligence Bulletin: Asbestos Fibers and Other Elongate Mineral Particles: State of the Science and Roadmap for Research.
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OSHA/NIOSH Guidance on Spirometry Testing to Reduce Respitory Hazard Exposure
From OSHA on March 25, 2011—
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) developed two guidance documents, one for workers and one for employers, which describe the use of spirometry testing to help reduce and prevent worker exposure to respiratory hazards.
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NIOSH Seeks Public Input to Update Its Nanotechnology Strategic Plan
From NIOSH –
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is seeking public input “on the types of hazard identification and risk management research that should be considered for updating the NIOSH 2009 nanotechnology strategic plan,” the agency announced in a March 7, 2011 Federal Register notice.
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OSHA Final Rule on Nuclear and Environmental Retaliation Complaints
From OSHA –
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently published a final rule (http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.
Read more >
PHMSA Final Rule Limiting Electronic Device Use By HazMat Drivers
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is prohibiting texting on electronic devices by drivers during the operation of a motor vehicle containing a quantity of hazardous materials requiring placarding or any quantity of a select agent or toxin listed in the Department of Health and Human Services “Select Agents and
OSHA Seeks Comments on VPP Paperwork Requirements
OSHA has asked for comments on its proposal to extend the Office of
Management and Budget's (OMB's) approval of the information collection
requirements contained in its Voluntary Protection Programs Information.
This is a routine requirement but an opportunity to comment on any
concerns with the paperwork involved in the program.
Read more >
OSHA Seeks Applications to Provide Online Outreach Training Programs
OSHA has announced the opportunity for interested organizations to
submit applications to be authorized to deliver 10-hour and/or 30-hour
OSHA Outreach Training Program courses in the construction industry,
general industry, and maritime industry in an online format.
Read more >
PHMSA Final Rule on Enhanced Enforcement Authority Procedures
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
published a final rule to implement enhanced inspection, investigation,
and enforcement authority conferred by the Hazardous Materials
Transportation Safety and Security Reauthorization Act of 2005.
Read more >
Canadian Report Says Workplace Stress Highest For Invested Workers
As reported by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health, “Most people who work have occasionally felt stress from their jobs. However for workers who experience high levels of stress on an ongoing basis, stress can turn into burnout, mental health disorders and physical illnesses.
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New Cal OSHA Chief
Various media sources are reporting that Governor Jerry Brown has appointed Ellen Widess to head California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) beginning April 15th. Ms. Widess oversaw the Division’s pesticide program from the late 1970s to the early 1980s.
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MSHA Proposed Rule to Lower Miner Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust/Continuous Personal Dust Monitors
MSHA has requested comments on the proposed rule published in the
Federal Register on October 19, 2010, addressing Lowering Miners'
Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust, Including Continuous Personal
Dust Monitors.
Read more >
PHMSA on HazMat Cargo Tank Motor Vehicle Loading/Unloading Operations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend the Hazardous
Materials Regulations to require each carrier or facility engaged in
cargo tank loading or unloading operations to perform a risk
assessment of the loading and unloading operation and develop and
implement safe
EPA Final Rule on IDing Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials that are Solid Waste
EPA has published a final rule that identifies which non-hazardous
secondary materials, when used as fuels or ingredients in combustion
units, are ``solid wastes'' under the Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act (RCRA).
Read more >
EPA Final Rule on Commercial/Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Unit Emissions
EPA has promulgated a final response to a 2001 voluntary remand of a
December 2000 new source performance standards and emission guidelines
for commercial and industrial solid waste incineration units and the
vacatur and remand of several definitions by the District of
Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals in 2007.
Read more >
NIEHS RFI on Assessing Human Health Impacts of Exposure to Mixtures
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHs), the
Division of Extramural Research and Training (DERT) and the National
Toxicology Program (NTP) seek input for identification of key research
areas in mixtures.
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PHMSA on HazMat Cargo Tank Motor Vehicle Loading/Unloading Operations
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend the Hazardous
Materials Regulations to require each carrier or facility engaged in
cargo tank loading or unloading operations to perform a risk
assessment of the loading and unloading operation and develop and
implement safe
EPA Final Rule on IDing Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials that are Solid Waste
EPA has published a final rule that identifies which non-hazardous
secondary materials, when used as fuels or ingredients in combustion
units, are ``solid wastes'' under the Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act (RCRA).
Read more >
EPA Final Rule on Commercial/Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Unit Emissions
EPA has promulgated a final response to a 2001 voluntary remand of a
December 2000 new source performance standards and emission guidelines
for commercial and industrial solid waste incineration units and the
vacatur and remand of several definitions by the District of
Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals in 2007.
Read more >
Fed OSH Agency Budget Battle Detailed
Dominating the occupational safety and health debate in Washington, DC, in 2011 will be Congressional appropriations for OSHA, NIOSH, CSB and MSHA. Below are the current proposals. On the left are provisions contained in a bill passed by the House on February 19 that would continue funding for FY 2011.
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ASSE’s Michigan Members Oppose Bill to End MIOSHA
ASSE’s members in Michigan have stated their staunch support for Michigan’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) in a letter to the sponsor of a bill that would abolish the state plan.
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ASSE Members in Maryland Oppose Bill to Create New IH Designations
ASSE members in Maryland have taken a stand against a bill that would establish two new industrial hygiene designations in the state.
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ASSE and AIHA Call for Study to Find Best Place for NIOSH
In a joint letter to Rep. John Kline, Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, ASSE and AIHA joined together to call for a GAO study to determine the best location for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the federal government.
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ASSE Shares View of OSHA I2P2 Rulemaking with House Oversight Committee
In a letter to Representative Darrell Issa, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, ASSE expressed its support for OSHA’s injury and illness prevention program (I2P2) standard rulemaking but shared its December 2010 letter to Assistant Secretary for OSHA David Michaels stating the principles ASSE will use in helping
MSHA Proposes Rule on Pattern of Violations
MSHA has proposed to revise its existing regulation for pattern of
violations (POV).
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OSHA at 40 Timeline
From OSHA –
April 28, 2011, marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of OSHA. Since OSHA’s creation, the nation has seen remarkable progress in worker health and safety. Throughout 2011, OSHA is presenting a series of activities to celebrate these accomplishments.
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NIOSH NORA Seeks Nominations for Awards
From NIOSH -
The National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Liaison Committee and NIOSH are pleased to announce an invitation for nominations for two prestigious worker health and safety awards to be presented at the seventh NORA Symposium to be held in Cincinnati, OH, on July 12-13, 2011. Details for each award are listed below.
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Lowering Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust/Continuous Personal Dust Monitors
MSHA has extended the comment period on the proposed rule addressing
Lowering Miners' Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust, Including
Continuous Personal Dust Monitors. This extension gives commenters
additional time to review and comment on the proposed rule.
Read more >
NIOSH Seeks Abstracts for Eliminating Health and Safety Disparities at Work Conference
From NIOSH –
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) first national conference on occupational health and safety disparities will bring together people from multiple disciplines and perspectives to address the social, cultural, and economic factors that create and perpetuate disparities due to the work enviro
NIOSH Publishes Alert on Beryllium
NIOSH has published an alert on beryllium, available at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2011-107/pdfs/2011-107.pdf. “Preventing Sensitization and Disease from Beryllium Exposure” warns that cases of beryllium sensitization and chronic beryllium disease have been reported from exposures below the current OSHA PEL of 2.
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Oregon OSHA Adopts New Crane Standard
On February 9, Oregon OSHA adopted a new crane standard, available at http://tinyurl.com/4b5y6nz.
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Tales from the Front: House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Hearing on OSHA Reg Agenda
On Tuesday, February 15, 2011 Heidi Hansen of the law Office of Adele Abrams attended the House Education and the Workforce (formerly “Labor”) Committee’s Subcommittee on Workforce Protections hearing entitled “Investigating OSHA’s Regulatory Agenda and Its Impact on Job Creation.” Members present were: Rep.
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CSB Releases Video on Gas Release Hazards
From CSB –
CSB Releases New Safety Video on One Year Anniversary of Kleen Energy; “Deadly Practices” Focuses on ConAgra and Kleen Energy Explosions to Show Hazards of Gas Releases
Washington, DC, February 4, 2011 – The U.S.
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Former OSHA Regional Administrator Dean McDaniel Dies
From OSHA –
Dean McDaniel, Jr., former OSHA Regional Administrator for Region VI, passed away Jan. 31 in Dallas. He was 59. McDaniel had a 35-year career with OSHA. As Regional Administrator, McDaniel supervised the agency’s activities in five states and managed 12 offices with 275 workers.
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New OSHA Training Video on Respiratory Protection for Healthcare Workers
From OSHA –
OSHA has produced a new training video (http://www.dol.gov/dol/media/webcast/20110112-respirators/) for healthcare employers and workers that explains the proper use of respirators and the procedures to follow to assure that respirators protect workers from airborne hazards in healthcare settings.
Read more >
HazMat Requirements for External Product Piping on Cargo Tanks Transporting Flammable Liquids
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
proposed to amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations to prohibit the
transportation of flammable liquids in unprotected external product
piping on DOT specification cargo tank motor vehicles.
Read more >
FMCSA and PHMSA on Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safe Clearance
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) propose to
amend the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and
Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMRs), respectively, to prohibit a
motor vehicle driver from entering onto a highway-rail grade
crossing unless the
Pipeline Safety: Snow and Ice Build-Up on Gas Distribution Systems
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has
issued an advisory bulletin advises owners and operators of petroleum,
gas and natural gas facilities of the need to take the appropriate
steps to prevent damage to pipeline facilities from accumulated snow
or ice.
Read more >
EPA Seeks Public Comment on Plan to Review Regulations
From EPA –
February 18, 2011
WASHINGTON — The U.S.
Read more >
EPA Awards $5.5 Million to Support Nanotechnology Research
From EPA –
February 17, 2011
Research to help determine whether health risks exist
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $5.5 million to three consortia to support innovative research on nanotechnology.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Enforcement Guidance on PPE
From OSHA –
February 15, 2011
OSHA issues enforcement guidance on personal protective equipment to protect general industry workers’ safety, health
WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration today issued the Enforcement Guidance for Personal Protective Equipment in General Industry (http://www.osha.
Read more >
EPA Seeks Public Comment on the 16th Annual U.S. Greenhouse Gas Inventory
From EPA –
February 16, 2011
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on the annual Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2009 draft report. This report will be open for public comment for 30 days after the Federal Register notice is published.
Read more >
GAO Stuff
NEW GAO FLICKR PAGE FEATURES REPORT PHOTOS AND GRAPHICS
WASHINGTON (February 10, 2011) – The U.S. Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) latest step into the world of new and social media communication is an agency presence on the image-sharing website Flickr.
Read more >
Obama Administration’s New Tack on Regulations
Last week, a new way forward on regulations was announced by the Obama Administration. As the next articles indicate, following that announcement – though no connection was announced – OSHA has pulled back its efforts on adding an ergo column to the 300 log and its interpretation of feasibility for noise protections.
Read more >
OSHA Withdraws 300 Ergo Column
From OSHA –
January 25, 2011
US Labor Department’s OSHA temporarily withdraws proposed column
for work-related musculoskeletal disorders, reaches out to small businesses
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
Read more >
OSHA Withdraws Hearing Protection Feasibility Interpretation
From OSHA –
Jan. 19, 2011
US Department of Labor’s OSHA withdraws
proposed interpretation on occupational noise
Agency examines other approaches to prevent work-related hearing loss
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
Read more >
NIOSH Releases Research to Support the Value of Safety
The Economic Burden of Occupational Fatal Injuries to Civilian Workers in the U.S. Based on the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, 1992–2002 http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2011-130/pdfs/afinal.
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You Can Talk to NIOSH About PPE, March 29 in Pittsburgh
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Personal Protective Technology (PPT) Program and National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL) invite you to attend our fourth stakeholders meeting on March 29, 2011, at the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh Airport.
Read more >
NIOSH Announces August 22-24 PtD Conference in DC
From NIOSH –
Mark your calendars for the Prevention through Design (PtD) Conference hosted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Prevention through Design: A New Way of Doing Business – Report on the National Initiative
August 22 – 24, 2011 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC.
Read more >
Oil Spill Commission Issues Final Report
On January 11, the the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling formed after the explosion and spill in the Gulf of Mexico released its final report, calling for tougher regulation, stiffer fines and the strengthening of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE), among a variet
Congressional OSH Subcommittee Members Announced
Two key subcommittees, one in the House and the other in the Senate, deal directly with most workplace safety and health issues in Congress. Here are the new members of those Subcommittees.
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FMCSA Issues Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Trucker Hours of Service
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has published a notice of proposed rulemaking proposing to revise the regulations for hours of service for drivers of property-carrying commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
Read more >
Supreme Court Says Medical Residents are Workers
As the press release from the American Medical Student Association explains, at http://www.amsa.org/AMSA/Homepage/About/News/011111.aspx, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on January 11 that medical residents are workers, not students.
Read more >
CSB Commends West Virginia’s Response to ’07 Propane Explosion
From CSB –
CSB Commends West Virginia Action on CSB Recommendation that Propane Technicians be Trained and Licensed; Action Follows Tragic Explosion at Convenience Store
Washington DC, January 12, 2011 – CSB Chairperson Rafael Moure-Eraso today commended West Virginia for its effecctive response to a CSB recommendation tha
OSHA Cites Two Illinois Grain Elevators for Willful Violations in Three Worker Deaths
From OSHA –
January 24, 2011
US Labor Department cites 2 Illinois grain elevator operators for willful safety, child labor violations following deaths of 3 workers, including 2 teens
Employers fined nearly $1.4 million
MOUNT CARROLL, Ill. – The U.S. Department of Labor has fined Haasbach LLC in Mount Carroll and Hillsdale Elevator Co.
Read more >
Main Responds to 2010 Miner Fatality Increase
01/13/2011
Mining deaths rise in 2010
MSHA chief pledges continued enforcement, outreach on behalf of nation’s miners
ARLINGTON, Va. – Mining fatalities in the United States significantly increased in 2010, following a year marked by the fewest deaths in mining history, according to the U.S.
Read more >
EU-OSHA Touts Incentives for Companies to Invest in Risk Prevention
From EU-OSHA -
http://osha.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/economic-incentives-pay-dividends-for-workplace-safety-and-health?utm_source=oshmail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=oshmail-103
29.09.
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MSHA Announces Results of December Inspections
MSHA News Release: [01/27/2011]
MSHA announces results of December 2010 impact and regularly scheduled inspections
ARLINGTON, Va. – The U.S.
Read more >
MACOSH Reestablished
Secretary of Labor Soliz has published notice of her intention to
reestablish the Maritime Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety
and Health (MACOSH).
Read more >
PHMSA Rule on HazMat Harmony with UN/Int’l Maritime. Civil Aviation Codes
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
has issued a final rule amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations
to maintain alignment with international standards by incorporating
various amendments, including changes to proper shipping names,
hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging
authorizations, air
EPA Proposed Rule on Non-Mercury Industrial Thermometers
From EPA –
Today EPA is publishing a proposed rule to allow the use of non-mercury containing industrial thermometers in areas such as petroleum refining, power generation, and testing for vehicle emissions (76 FR 2056). The following link will take you to the Agency’s mercury Web page: www.epa.
Read more >
EPA Guidance on Monitoring HexChrome in Drinking Water
From EPA –
January 11, 2011
EPA Issues Guidance for Enhanced Monitoring of Hexavalent Chromium in Drinking Water
WASHINGTON – Several weeks ago, EPA Administrator Lisa P.
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GAO Stuff
Rail Safety: Federal Railroad Administration Should Report on Risks
to the Successful Implementation of Mandated Safety Technology.
GAO-11-133, December 15. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-11-133
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d11133high.
Read more >
Obama Administration’s New Tact on Regulations – OSHA Withdraws Hearing Protection Feasibility and 300 Ergo Column Efforts
On January 18, a new way forward on regulations was announced by the Obama Administration. As the next articles indicate, following that announcement – though no connection was announced – OSHA has pulled back its efforts on adding an ergo column to the 300 log and its interpretation of feasibility for noise protections.
Read more >
ASSE Sets Principles for OSHA I2P2 Rulemaking
In a letter to OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels, ASSE applauded him for beginning the task of promulgating an injury and illness prevention program (I2P2) standard, which ASSE has long wanted OSHA to pursue. Set out in the letter are 10 principles to help guide ASSE’s engagement in I2P2 rulemaking.
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NIOSH Reports on Coal Mine Refuge Alternatives
From NIOSH –
On January 23, NIOSH delivered the “Research Report on Refuge Alternatives for Underground Coal Mines.
Read more >
Transportation Secretary Offers Legislation to Improve Rail Safety
This article is from OH&S Online and can be found in full at http://ohsonline.com/articles/2009/12/13/lahood-proposes-legislation-to-improve-rail-transit-safety-oversight.aspx
LaHood Proposes Legislation to Improve Rail Transit Safety Oversight
Dec 13, 2009
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood on Dec.
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OSHA Provides Online Resources for New Cranes and Derricks Standard
Two fact sheets have recently been posted to the OSHA Web site to provide assistance complying with Subpart CC of the cranes and derricks in construction final rule. The Qualified Rigger* fact sheet (https://www.osha.gov/Publications/cranes-qualified-rigger-factsheet.
Read more >
NIOSH Seeks Comments on Latest Draft of Asbestos Roadmap
From NIOSH –
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) requests comment on the draft Current Intelligence Bulletin (CIB) \”Asbestos Fibers and Other Elongate Mineral Particles: State of the Science and Roadmap for Research Version 4\”, NIOSH Docket Number NIOSH 099-C.
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ASSE Backs OSHA and Illinois on Public Sector State Plan
ASSE expressed support for an Illinois Employee Only State Plan in a comment to OSHA on rulemaking to provide approval for the plan. ASSE has long supported extending occupational safety and health coverage to the 8.1 million public sector workers not covered under federal safety and health standards.
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ASSE Testimony Raises Concerns Over NIOSH Asbestos Roadmap Changes
ASSE voiced several concerns regarding the focus of the NIOSH Roadmap on Asbestos and other Elongated Particle Minerals at a NIOSH hearing held on March 30, 2009. Adele L. Abrams, Esq.
Read more >
New ACCSH Members Announced
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao appointed three new members to the 15-person Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH). The new members are
Representatives of Employer Interests — Thomas R. Shanahan, assistant executive director, National Association of Roofing Contractors; and Daniel D.
Read more >
ASSE’s Michigan Members Continue Opposition to Sanitarian Licensure Substitute Bill
Following opposition from ASSE and others, the House sponsor of a Michigan bill (HB 6205) to license sanitarians offered a last-minute Substitute (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/communications/state/docs/HB6205-H-2-Draft-1-pdf1.PDF) that quickly passed the Michigan House on November 10.
Read more >
GAO Stuff – Deepwater Horizon, Surface Coal Mining
Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Preliminary Assessment of Federal Financial Risks and Cost Reimbursement and Notification Policies and Procedures. GAO-11-90R, November 12. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-11-90R Podcast available – http://www.gao.gov/podcast/watchdog_episode_36.
Read more >
EPA Denies Petition to Ban Lead in Fishing Gear
From EPA –
November 4, 2010
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has denied a petition calling for a ban on the manufacture, use and processing of lead in fishing gear.
Read more >
FRA Updated Guide for Reporting Incidents
On November 9, the Federal Railroad Administration published its updated its Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports, which is available at http://safetydata.fra.dot.gov/officeofsafety/publicsite/ProposedFRAGuide.aspx and is effective June 1, 2011.
Read more >
EPA Proposes Guidance for Underground Storage Tanks
From EPA –
WASHINGTON – As part of its commitment to help ensure that biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, are safely stored in underground storage tanks (USTs), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released draft guidance for UST owners and operators who wish to store these fuels.
Read more >
EPA Identifies Areas Across Country Violating Lead Standards
From EPA –
November 16, 2010
Reducing lead emissions will improve public health, especially for children
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that 16 areas across the country are not meeting the agency’s national air quality standards for lead.
Read more >
EPA on NESHAP for Cr Electroplating/Anodizing Tanks; Group I Polymers/Resins; Marine Tank Vessel Loading; Pharma Production; Printing/Publishing; Steel Pickling
EPA has published a Proposed Rule to address the residual risk and technology reviews conducted for two national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP) as well as a supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for its October 2008 proposal to address the residual risk and technology reviews for four NESHAP.
Read more >
PHMSA Rulemaking on Safety of On-Shore Hazardous Liquid Pipelines
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to consider whether changes are needed to its regs covering hazardous liquid onshore pipelines.
Read more >
NHTSA Publishes Safety Rules and Research Priorities
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on November 18 publishes its Final Vehicle Safety Rulemaking and Research Priority Plan for 2010-2013, which outlines the agency’s plans to combat motor vehicle safety. See the notice at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-28717.pdf.
Read more >
EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Gas Reporting Requirements for Petroleum and Natural Gas Industry
From EPA –
November 9, 2010
Reporting targets methane, a potent greenhouse gas and valuable fuel
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting requirements for the petroleum and natural gas industries as part of the mandatory reporting program.
Read more >
OSHA Renews NACOSH’s Charter
The Secretary of Labor has renewed the charter of the National
Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-27439.
Read more >
ACCSH Meetings Set for December 7-10
OSHA has announced that its Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) will meet December 9 and 10, 2010 in Washington, DC. ACCSH Work Groups will meet December 7 and 8, 2010. For more information, go to http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-29124.htm.
Read more >
EPA Seeks Small Businesses Input on Exterior Lead Paint
From EPA –
November 19, 2010
WASHINGTON — The U.S.
Read more >
IoM Recommends NIOSH Do More to Evaluate PPE
In a report released November 11, the Institute of Medicine recommended better evaluation of personal protective equipment through the development by NIOSH of a risk-based conformity assessment processes for non-respiratory PPT and the establishment of a surveillance system to help measure the effectiveness of PPT.
Read more >
Second Phase of Mining Outreach and Enforcement Program Launched
From the Department of Labor –
N
early 50 miners have lost their lives in catastrophic mining accidents over the last 10 years. That is simply unacceptable, says Mine Safety and Health Administration Assistant Secretary Joe Main.
Read more >
MSHA Issues Program Policy Letter on Workplace Examinations
On November 10, MSHA issued a program policy letter (http://www.msha.gov/REGS/COMPLIAN/PPLS/2010/PPL10-IV-03.asp) clarifying its requirements for mine workplace examinations. The letter states that operators must inspect each working place for safety and health hazards at least once each shift and keep a record of the examination.
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NYC Latino/Immigrant Worker Safety and Health Summit a Success
Diana Cortez, who is quoted below, led the effort to hold this summit in New York City and is an ASSE member involved in ASSE’s Safety Professionals and the Latino Workforce (SPALW).
Read more >
MSHA Public Hearings on Rulemaking to Lower Miner Coal Dust Exposure
MSHA has announced it will hold six public hearings on its proposed rule addressing Lowering Miners’ Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust, Including Continuous Personal Dust Monitors. The proposed rule was published on October 19, 2010 (75 FR 64412) and is available on MSHA’s Web site at http://www.msha.
Read more >
OSHA Announces Public Meeting to Prepare for December UN Meetings on GHS
OSHA has invited interested parties to participate in an open, informal public meeting to discuss proposals in preparation for the 20th session of the United Nations Subcommittee of Experts on the
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (UNSCEGHS). The public meeting will be held November 30 from 1-3 p.m.
Read more >
MSHA Announces Results of October Impact Inspections
From DoL at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/msha/MSHA20101631.htm
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration today announced that federal inspectors issued 380 citations and orders during special impact inspections conducted at 13 coal and six metal/nonmetal mine operations last month.
Read more >
Michaels Comments on BLS ’09 Nonfatal Injury/Illness Report
The BLS report can be found at http://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/, though BLS sums up the report with, “In private industry, the number of injuries and illness cases involving days away from work decreased 11 percent to 964,990 cases—a decline from 1,078,140 in 2008.
Read more >
MSHA Puts 13 Mines on Notice for Potential Pattern of Violations
From DoL at http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/msha/MSHA20101641.htm
The U.S.
Read more >
OSHA Holding Hearings on Walking Working Surfaces and PPE Rulemaking
The deadline for filing a notice to appear is November 30.
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA is scheduled to host at least one day’s worth of hearings in January on the agency’s proposed rule (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-10418.
Read more >
OSHA Releases Bulletin on Diacetyl
Dated October 14, a Safety Health Information Bulletin was released by OSHA for employers and workers involved in the manufacture of flavorings in flavoring, food and beverage manufacturing about the potential health effects associated with exposure to diacetyl. The bulletin is available at http://www.osha.gov/dts/shib/shib10142010.html.
Read more >
A View of the Midterm Elections from Labor
Included in the last GA Update was a view of the midterm elections from an OSH attorney written or business interests, which you can read at http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/gaupdate/index.php?issue=2010-11-05&article=1754a.
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Join the ASSE Government Affairs Discussion on LinkedIn
The question often comes up whether ASSE asks its members what to say when government affairs comments are developed. Actually, comments are developed based on the views of members on the Government Affairs Committee with input from members of appropriate practice specialties and standards committees.
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ASSE’s Michigan Members Continue Opposition to Sanitarian Licensure Substitute Bill
Following opposition from ASSE and others, the House sponsor of a Michigan bill (HB 6205) to license sanitarians offered a last-minute Substitute (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/communications/state/docs/HB6205-H-2-Draft-1-pdf1.PDF) that quickly passed the Michigan House on November 10.
Read more >
GAO Stuff – Climate Change, FEMA Assessment of Preparedness
Climate Change: A Coordinated Strategy Could Focus Federal Geoengineering Research and Inform Governance Efforts, GAO-10-903, September 23
http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-10-903
Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d10903high.
Read more >
Tales from the Front: September 24 SBA OSHA/MSHA Roundtable
The SBA Office of Advocacy’s OSHA/MSHA Roundtable meets regularly in Washington, DC, to discuss the impact of rulemaking on small businesses.
Heidi Hansen from the Law Office of Adele Abrams, ASE’s Federal Representative, attended the SBA OSHA/MSHA Roundtable on Friday, September 24, 2010 in Washington, DC.
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OSHA Holding State Plans Accountable
From OSHA –
US Labor Department’s OSHA reports on state-run
occupational safety and health programs
Agency calls for corrective actions to keep workers safe
WASHINGTON – The U.S.
Read more >
BLS Sees Jobs in Wind Industry
In a report available at http://www.bls.gov/green/wind_energy/, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that wind energy installations and power generation from wind farms in this nation are increasing and jobs for American engineers, construction workers, and managers are and will be available.
Read more >
FRA Rulemaking on Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus
DoT’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has proposed to amend its regulations related to occupational safety and health in locomotive cabs in three ways.
Read more >
PHMSA Final Rule on Misc. HazMat Packaging Amendments
This final rule responds to one petition for reconsideration and four appeals and also corrects several errors that occurred in a February 2010 Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) final rule amending the Hazardous Materials Regulations to revise several packaging related definitions; add provisions to allow more flexibili
PHMSA Proposes Ban on Driver Electronic Device Use in HazMat Transportation
DoT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to prohibit texting on electronic devices by drivers during the operation of a motor vehicle containing a quantity of hazardous materials requiring placarding under part 172 of the 49 CFR or any quantity of a select agent or toxi
FMSCA Final Rule Limits Use of Wireless Communication Devices
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a final rule prohibiting texting by commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers while operating in interstate commerce and imposing civil penalties and disqualification from operating CMVs in interstate commerce for drivers who fail to comply.
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New OSHA Compliance Assistance Products
OSHA issued the following new or updated compliance assistance products in FY 2010. To find these, see the New Compliance Assistance Products page on the OSHA Compliance Assistance Web page at http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/compliance_assistance/new_ca_products.html.
eTools — Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution (Jan.
Read more >
OSHA Wants Your Videos on Respiratory Protection!
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA is producing several training mini-videos on various aspects of respiratory protection for workers in general industry and construction (e.g., fit testing, respiratory hazards in the workplace, medical evaluations, etc.).
Read more >
EPA Lays Out 5-Year Plan
From EPA –
October 7, 2010
EPA Lays Out Five-Year Plan on Agency Priorities
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued its fiscal year (FY) 2011 to 2015 strategic plan, which provides a blueprint for advancing EPA’s mission and Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s priorities.
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EPA Signs MOU with China on Environmental Protection
From EPA –
October 12, 2010
WASHINGTON – During her first official visit to China, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa P. Jackson and Minister of Environmental Protection Zhou Shengxian signed an agreement that formalizes the partnership between the United States and China on environmental protection.
Read more >
Tales from the Front: MSHA I2P2 Hearing
The following is from Adele Abrams, Esq., who is ASSE’s Federal Representative and a mining safety expert –
On October 8, 2010, I represented ASSE and testified at a hearing on MSHA’s forthcoming proposed rule to mandate safety and health management programs (SHMP) for all types of mines.
Read more >
OSHA Issues Letters of Interpretation
OSHA has recently issued two letters of interpretation.
A September 30 letter of interpretation addresses whether OSHA will rely on ANSI Z359.1-2007, regarding snaphook compressive strength requirements, in enforcing the general duty clause with respect to personal fall arrest systems in construction, as announced in letter #20070920-8088.
Read more >
GAO Finds Feds Giving Contracts to OSHA Violators
The Government Accountability Office has found found that major worker safety and health violators are among the federal government’s largest contract awardees.
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DoL Reestablishes ACCSH
The Secretary of Labor has reestablished the Charter of the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) for two years. ACCSH is a continuing advisory committee established under the Construction Safety Act [40 U.S.C.
Read more >
PHMSA Meeting on Int’l Standards on Transport of Dangerous Goods
DoT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has announced that it will hold a public meeting in preparation for the 38th session of the United Nations Sub-Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UNSCOE TDG) to be held November 29-December 7, 2010, in Geneva, Switzerland.
Read more >
DOT and EPA Propose Greenhouse Gas and Fuel Efficiency Standards for Trucks and Buses
From EPA –
October 25, 2010
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) today announced the first national standards to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve fuel efficiency of heavy-duty trucks and buses.
Read more >
Labor Inspector General Targets OSHA Whistleblower Program and Penalty Reductions
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Inspector General (IG) issued a couple reports on OSHA activities in October. On October 5, it issued a report (http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/2010/02-10-202-10-105.
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Assistant Secretary Michaels’ Updated OSHA Vision
From OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels –
In July, I sent a letter to OSHA staff describing my vision for transforming the Agency to meet the challenges facing us in 2010 and beyond.
Read more >
Secretary Solis Reports on Decline in Workplace Injuries and Illnesses
From OSHA QuickTakes –
Results from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (http://www.bls.gov/iif/oshsum.htm) released Oct. 21 show there were about 400,000 fewer nonfatal occupational illnesses and injuries reported by private industry employers in 2009 than in the previous year. Of the 3.
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MSHA Kicks Off Annual “Winter Alert” Campaign
MSHA has kicked off its 2010 Winter Alert campaign (http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/MSHA/MSHA20101527.htm) to warn miners and mine operators about the dangers colder weather can bring to the mining environment. MSHA says that statistics show most coal mine explosions occur during the colder months.
Read more >
MSHA Proposes Rule to Address Black Lung Risk
MSHA has proposed to lower miners’ exposure to respirable coal mine dust by revising its existing standards on miners’ occupational exposure to respirable coal mine dust.
Read more >
OSHA Limits Outreach Training Program Student Hours
WASHINGTON – OSHA recently revised its policy for all Outreach Training Programs (http://www.osha.gov/dte/outreach/construction_generalindustry/guidelines.html) to address the number of hours each day a student may spend in OSHA 10- and 30-hour classes.
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OSHA Seeks Comments on Interpretation of Workplace Noise Exposure Controls
From OSHA QuickTakes –
OSHA issued a notice in the Oct. 19 Federal Register proposing to issue an interpretation of the term “feasible administrative or engineering controls” as used in the general industry and construction occupational noise exposure standards and to amend its current enforcement policy to reflect the interpretation.
Read more >
OSHA Seeks Input on Hazardous Chemicals to Address
As part of the dialogue OSHA has begun on how to update its permissible exposure limits (PELs), the Agency has established a web forum where anyone can contribute their thoughts on the hazardous chemicals for which OSHA should develop exposure reduction strategies. You can find the forum and add your thoughts at http://www.osha.
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ASSE Opposes OSHA Proposed Changes in Consultation Program
Citing its past work with OSHA and OSHA’s efforts to address recognized difficulties in getting small businesses to commit to workplace safety and health, ASSE opposed proposed changes to its consultation program making it easier for OSHA to inspect small employers engaged in consultation but make small employers even more fearful to use OSHA’s
The Impact of the Midterm Election on Occupational Safety and Health
Occupational safety and health will most likely reflect the overall political process following the midterm elections that resulted in a Republican House and Democratic Senate that has shown little talent or desire to compromise from entrenched positions on either side of the debate, whatever the issue.
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GAO Stuff – Perchlorate, Disaster Response
Perchlorate: Occurrence Is Widespread but at Varying Levels; Federal Agencies Have Taken Some Actions to Respond to and Lessen Releases. GAO-10-769, August 12. http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-10-769 Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d10769high.
Read more >
EPA to Contribute $6 Million to Life-Saving International Project for Clean Cookstoves
From EPA –
Indoor smoke from cooking fires leads to about 2 million deaths each year
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa P.
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Oregon OSHA Holds Teen Safety Video Contest
High school students across Oregon are invited to enter Oregon OSHA’s third annual safety video contest, designed to increase awareness about safety on the job for young people. Contest winners will be announced at a screening event in the spring, and winning entries will be posted on YouTube. The deadline for submissions is February 1, 2011.
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Massachusetts Passes Law Banning Lacquer Sealers in Wood Floor Finishing
From NIOSH –
Within a 10-month period in 2004-2005, three Vietnamese wood floor sanders died and three others were seriously burned in two Boston-area incidents when the lacquer sealers they were using caught fire.
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FRA Seeks Comments on Revised Civil Penalties
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued for comment a revised proposal to amend FRA’s schedules of civil penalties issued as appendices to FRA’s rail safety regulations, as well as other guidance, in order to reflect more accurately the degree of safety risk associated with a violation of each regulatory requirement and to
FMCSA Direct Final Rule Requires ABS External Malfunction Indicator Lamps
FMCSA has issued a direct final rule making permanent the existing requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) that trailers with antilock brake systems (ABS) be equipped with an external malfunction indicator lamp.
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New FMCSA Policy on Driver, Vehicle, HazMat Out-of-Service and Crash Rates
Under 49 CFR 385.407, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) may not issue a hazardous materials safety permit (HMSP) to a motor carrier having a crash rate, or driver, vehicle, or hazardous materials (HM) out-of-service (OOS) rate in the top 30 percent of the national average.
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EPA Amends Greenhouse Gas Mandatory Reporting Rule
EPA has issued a final rule amending its the Final Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Rule to require reporters subject to the rule to provide the name, address, and percentage ownership of their U.S.
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Trucking Industry Mobility & Technology Coalition Annual Meeting
DoT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration has announced that the Trucking Industry Mobility & Technology Coalition (TIMTC) Annual Meeting will be held October 18-19, 2010 in conjunction with ATA’s Management Conference & Exhibition in Phoenix, providing TIMTC members with the opportunity to participate in both events s
NY Action Summit for Latino/Immigrant Workers Safety and Health Announced
Following the successful National Action Summit for Latino Worker Health and Safety held in Texas this Spring, Regional Administrator Robert Kulick has scheduled the New York Action Summit for Latino/Immigrant Workers Safety and Health for November 16, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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NIOSH Seeks Comments on Respirators and Oil/Gas
NIOSH seeks comments on
• Proposed Rule on Total Inward Leakage Requirements for Respirators. Comment period extended through September 30. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docket/nioshdocket0137.html
• Workers in the oil and gas extraction industry die from occupational injuries at a rate 8 times higher than the average rate for all U.S. workers.
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NIOSH Seeks Comments on Respirators and Oil/Gas
NIOSH seeks comments on
• Proposed Rule on Total Inward Leakage Requirements for Respirators. Comment period extended through September 30. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docket/nioshdocket0137.html
• Workers in the oil and gas extraction industry die from occupational injuries at a rate 8 times higher than the average rate for all U.S. workers.
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OSHA Warns of Cleaning Fuel Gas Pipes with Natural Gas
OSHA has sent a letter to energy companies and gas turbine manufacturers warning them of the hazards of cleaning fuel gas piping systems using natural gas. According to OSHA’ Cooperative Program notice on the issue, OSHA recently issued $16.
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NIOSH Publishes Updated List of Hazardous Drugs in Healthcare Settings
NIOSH has announced the publication of “NIOSH List of Antineoplastic and Other Hazardous Drugs in Healthcare Settings 2010,” which can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-167/.
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EPA Significant New Use Rules on Multi-Walled and Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
EPA has issued significant new use rules (SNURs) under section 5(a)(2) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for two chemical substances which were the subject of Premanufacture Notices (PMNs).
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OSHA Compliance Assistance on Cranes and Derricks
If you’re looking for basic information on OSHA’s new cranes and derricks standard, check out OSHA’s compliance assistance page at http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/cranesderricks-factsheet.html.
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MSHA Makes Mine Safety Data Available
MSHA has published nearly 10 years of crucial data regarding the safety and health records of the nation’s mines. The seven data sets available for download now on MSHA’s website contain information about mine locations, accidents, injuries, production, violations and inspections.
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MSHA Holding Public Meetings on Safety and Health Management Programs
MSHA is holding three public meetings to gather information about effective, comprehensive safety and health management programs at mines. Public meetings will include presentations on model programs by representatives from academia; safety and health professionals; industry organizations; worker organizations; and government agencies.
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OSHA Announces Harwood Grantees
From OSHA –
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today awarded $2.
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Tales from the Front: NACOSH Meeting September 14
From the Office of Adele Abrams, Esq., ASSE’s Federal Representative –
The National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health met at the Department of Labor in Washington, DC on September 14-15, 2010.
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OSHA Issues 2010 Site-Specific Targeting Inspection Plan
According to its directive (http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/Directive_pdf/CPL_02_10-06.pdf), OSHA’s 2010 Site-Specific Targeting Inspection Plan (SST-10) went into effort on August 18, 2010, and will expire in one year unless replaced earlier by a new directive.
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MSHA Emergency Standard on Incombustible Content of Rock Dust in Underground Coal Mines
MSHA has issued an emergency temporary standard (ETS) under section 101(b) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 in response to the grave danger that miners in underground bituminous coal mines face when accumulations of coal dust are not made inert. MSHA has concluded that immediate action is necessary to protect miners.
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Michaels Responds to GAO on Whistleblower Report
From OSHA –
Statement by US Department of Labor’s OSHA Assistant Secretary
Dr. David Michaels on GAO whistleblower protection program report
WASHINGTON — The U.S.
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GAO Slams OSHA on Whistleblower Program
Few people probably know that OSHA is responsible for the nation’s whistleblower program. In the OSH community, it’s been long known the program has been underfunded and staffed. Now the GAO has taken a look at it and found OSHA’s management of the program lacking.
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Michaels Says Increased Penalty Policy Coming
In a speech at the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission’s Annual Judicial Conference in Charleston, South Carolina on September 14, Assistant Secretary for OSHA David Michaels said a new policy to increase penalties will be launched by OSHA in October.
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OSHA Seeks Nominations for ACCSH
The Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA has invited interested parties to submit nominations for membership on ACCSH. Nominations must be submitted by November 12, 2010. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-22695.
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OSHA Proposes Changes to On-Site Consultation Program
OSHA has proposed to revise its regulations for the federally-funded On-site Consultation Program.
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OSHA Recognizes CSPs and CIHs in Trainer Requirements
OSHA has revamped Outreach Training Program requirements and recognized the value of the CSP and CIH designations in its prerequisites for becoming an authorized trainer.
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OSHA Announces Distracted Driving Initiatives, Including Enforcement
From OSHA –
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis announces partnership with
US Department of Transportation to combat distracted driving by workers
WASHINGTON – Because motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of worker fatalities, Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced a partnership between the U.S.
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DoL Joins DoT in National Effort on Distracted Driving
On Tuesday, September 21, the Department of Transportation hosted a Distracted Driving Summit in Washington, DC.
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ASSE Nominates Nigel Ellis to ACCSH
ASSE nominated Professional Member and ASSE Fellow Nigel Ellis to serve as a member of OSHA’s Advisory Committee for Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH). Dr.
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ASSE Supports NIOSH in WTC Responder Health Care Bill
A bill, HR 847, http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:HR00847:|/home/LegislativeData.php|, to fund health care for 9/11 World Trade Center responders failed in the House of Representatives in July while the Senate has taken no action on a companion bill, SB 1344, http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:SN01334:|/home/LegislativeData.
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ASSE Urges More Funding for CSB to Deal with Deepwater Investigation
ASSE has urged increased funding for the US Chemical Safety and Hazards Investigation Board (CSB) due to concern over the impact on CSB’s resources from the Congressionally requested investigation on the Deepwater Horizon explosion. In a letter (http://www.asse.
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EPA Seeks Common on Greener Site Cleanups
From EPA –
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public comment on a new strategy that would make cleanups at hazardous waste sites greener.
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GAO Stuff — Bridges, DOE Cleanup, FAA, Electronic Waste, Formaldehyde in Textiles, Superfund, Cyber Protection and Pipelines
Highway Bridge Program: Condition of Nation\’s Bridges Shows Limited Improvement, but Further Actions Could Enhance the Impact of Federal Investment. GAO-10-930T, July 21 http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-10-930T Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d10930thigh.
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Fed Agencies Collaborate to Improve Chemical Screening
From EPA –
July 19, 2010
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Toxicology Program (NTP) and the National Institute of Health Chemical Genomics Center (NCGC) welcome the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the Tox21 collaboration.
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House Democrats Introduce Toxic Chemicals Safety Act
On July 22, U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush, Chair of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection, and Rep. Henry A. Waxman, Chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, introduced H.R. 5820, the Toxic Chemicals Safety Act of 2010.
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EPA Publishes Latest Data on Industrial and Toxics Releases in the U.S.
From EPA –
July 28, 2010
WASHINGTON – As part of the Obama Administration’s continuing commitment to open government, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published the latest data on industrial releases and transfers of toxic chemicals in the United States between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2009.
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DOT Proposes National Tunnel Inspection Standards
The Department of Transportation has announced its proposal for national tunnel safety inspection standards. As the DoT says, “Currently, FHWA can and does provide tunnel inspection guidance, but existing regulations do not require tunnel owners, such as state departments of transportation or local authorities, to inspect tunnels.
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PHMSA Revises Emergency Response Guidebook
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice seeking comments on the development of the 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG), particularly from those who have experience using the 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook.
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EPA Rule on Mercury in Flow Meters, Natural Gas Manometers, Pyrometers
EPA is promulgating a significant new use rule (SNUR) under section 5(a)(2) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for elemental mercury for use in flow meters, natural gas manometers, and pyrometers, except for use in these articles when they are in service as of September 11, 2009.
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NIOSH Guidelines on Protecting Fire Fighters Using Risk Management Principles
NIOSH announced the availability of the publication “Preventing Deaths and Injuries of Fire Fighters Using Risk Management Principles at Structure Fires.” (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-153/) NIOSH developed this publication to assist the U.S. fire service in preventing fire fighter injuries and deaths at structure fires.
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Obama Announces New Initiative to Protect Federal Workers
From OSHA –
President Barak Obama issued a July 19 memorandum calling on all federal agencies to “improve workplace safety and health, reduce the financial burden of injury on taxpayers, and relieve unnecessary suffering by workers and their families.
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OSHA Enhances On-site Consultation Web Page
From OSHA –
OSHA has redesigned its On-site Consultation Web page (http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/consult.html) to enhance its usefulness to small and medium-sized businesses across the country seeking free and confidential advice on increasing workplace safety.
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OSHA Finalizes New Cranes and Derricks Rule
OSHA\’s new standard (http://www.osha.gov/cranes-derricks/index.html) addressing the use of cranes and derricks in construction was published July 28. A link the standard is below. According to OSHA, it, “(W)ill affect approximately 267,000 construction, crane rental and crane certification establishments with about 4.8 million workers.
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PHMSA Proposed Rule on Storing Explosives During Transportation
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) in coordination with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), is proposing to enhance existing attendance requirements for explosives stored during transportation by designating the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 498 as the Federally approved st
House Approves Bill to Give Whistleblower Protection to Offshore Workers
On July 30, the US House of Representatives, on a partisan vote of 315 to 93, approved the Offshore Oil and Gas Worker Whistleblower Protection Act to extend updated whistleblower protections to workers whose employers are engaged in oil and gas exploration, drilling, production, or cleanup on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).
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PHMSA Links Pipeline Work to DoT’s Distracted Work Effort
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an Advisory Bulletin to remind owners and operators of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities of the risks associated with the use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) by individuals performing operations and maintenance activities on a pipeline facility.
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OSHA Warns Grain Elevator Operators
From OSHA’s Cooperative Programs –
OSHA has sent a letter to all grain elevator operators warning them not to allow workers to enter grain storage bins without proper equipment, precautions, and training. The letter, which included a copy of OSHA’s grain handling facilities standard (29 CFR 1910.
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CSB Commends NFPA for Prohibiting Indoor Gas Pipe Purging
From CSB –
Statement of CSB Board Member John Bresland Commending NFPA
On February 4, 2010, I presided at a Chemical Safety Board public meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina, to present the CSB’s findings on the June 9, 2009, natural gas explosion at the ConAgra Slim Jim manufacturing plant in the nearby community of Garner.
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EPA Targeting Dyes, Flame Retardants and Industrial Detergents
From EPA –
August 18, 2010
WASHINGTON – As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to strengthen and reform chemical management, the U.S.
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EPA Proposes Improvements to Chemical Reporting
From EPA –
August 11, 2010
WASHINGTON – As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to strengthen and reform chemical management, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing several actions to improve reporting on chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
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Environmental Mapping Tool Available from EPA
Environmental Protection Agency\\\’s (EPA) has a mapping tool, EJView, that has been made available to the public. The tool is designed to allow users to choose and map demographic, environmental, and health data. Go to http://epamap14.epa.gov/ejmap/entry.html for more information.
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OSHA Publishes Interim Final Rules on Whistleblower Procedures
OSHA published three interim final rules in the Aug. 31 Federal Register to establish procedures for handling worker retaliation complaints, including allowing filing by phone as well as in writing and filing in languages other than English.
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NIOSH Seeks Comments on Draft Oil and Gas NORA Agenda
NIOSH’s NORA Oil and Gas Extraction Council has asked for comments on the current draft of its \”National Oil and Gas Extraction Agenda.\” You can find the agenda and make comments at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docket/review/docket213/default.html?s_cid=3ni7d2TW1008290130.
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Report Shows Works Rank Workplace Safety Highest
In a report entitled, “Public Attitudes towards and Experiences with Workplace Safety” by Dr. Tom W. Smith at the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago for the Public Welfare Foundation, workplace safety ranks high among public respondents to the survey.
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Tales from the Front: MSHA/OSHA Reform Hearing
HR 5663 is the bill carrying forward reforms to MSHA and OSHA in the US House of Representatives. This report from Gary Visscher, who works in the office of ASSE’s Federal Representative, details the hearing where that bill was marked up and passed by the Committee on Education and Labor.
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More than 200 Stakeholders Participate OSHA I2P2 Meetings
The meetings OSHA held to hear stakeholder views on injury and illness prevention plans (I2P2), or safety and health programs, were the first step in what appears to be a fast-track to a standard. ASSE was represented at the June 29 meeting in Washington, DC, by Council on Professional Affairs VP Tom Cecich.
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OSHA Comments on Record Number of Egregious Cases
From August 16 Issue of OSHA QuickTakes –
“There’s a new sheriff in town,” Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis warned during her 2009 swearing-in ceremony. Following up on that warning, OSHA is aggressively enforcing its standards when employers show indifference to protecting the safety and lives of their workers.
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BLS Cites Economy for Preliminary BLS Data Showing Decline in 2009 Fatalities
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) announced on August 19 a dramatic decrease in 2009 workplace fatalities. The report can be found at http://www.bls.gov/iif/#tables.
“A preliminary total of 4,340 fatal work injuries were recorded in the United States in 2009, down from a final count of 5,214 fatal work injuries in 2008.
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Join VPPPA in Supporting VPP
ASSE in various comments over the past year has supported continued funding for VPP and supports VPPPA’s educational campaign to Congress to urge continued funding. You can individually support VPPPA’s effort by going to its website at http://www.vpppa.org/GovAffairs/VPPSupport.
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Michaels Praises VPP but Warns of Its Possible End
On August 23, OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels addressed more than 2500 members of the Voluntary Protection Programs Participants Association at its annual conference. His remarks can be found at http://tinyurl.com/22wzbyk.
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ASSE Nominates Roberta Nelson Shea to NACOSH
ASSE nominated Roberta Nelson Shea to OSHA’s National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health. As ASSE’s nominating letter (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/) to Assistant Secretary for Labor David Michaels indicates, Ms.
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ASSE Urges Better Use of Consensus Standards in OSHA Slips and Falls/PPE Rulemaking
In an August 19 comment(http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/) to OSHA on its proposed Walking-Working Surfaces and Personal Protective Equipment rulemaking, ASSE urged the agency to utilize more thoroughly existing voluntary consensus standards as it develops the new rule.
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ASSE Opposes Sanitarian Licensure Bill in Michigan
ASSE members in Michigan are working to make sure a bill that would license sanitarians in Michigan does not keep them from practicing as safety, health and environmental professionals in that state. The bill, perhaps unintentionally, would require anyone doing occupational safety and health and most environmental work to be a sanitarian.
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ASSE Opposes Sanitarian Licensure Bill in Michigan
ASSE members in Michigan are working to make sure a bill that would license sanitarians in Michigan does not keep them from practicing as safety, health and environmental professionals in that state. The bill, perhaps unintentionally, would require anyone doing occupational safety and health and most environmental work to be a sanitarian.
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NIOSH Twitter Site Launched for Transportation Community
From NIOSH –
Follow NIOSH and the transportation community on Twitter (http://twitter.com/NIOSHtransport) to stay connected to industries such as those that transport passengers and cargo, provide scenic and sightseeing transportation, and support activities related to modes of transportation.
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PHMSA Proposed Rulemaking on Rural Onshore Hazardous Liquid Low-Stress Lines
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), is proposing to amend its pipeline safety regulations to apply safety regulations to rural low-stress hazardous liquid pipelines that are not covered by safety regulations in 49 CFR Part 195.
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EPA Direct Final Rule on Significant New Use Rules for 17 Chemicals
EPA has promulgating significant new use rules (SNURs) under section 5(a)(2) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for 17 chemical substances that were the subject of premanufacture notices (PMNs). Two of these chemical substances are subject to TSCA section 5(e) consent orders issued by EPA.
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PHMSA Seeks Comment on IAEA Regs for Transport of Radioactive Materials
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is seeking public comment on a draft revision of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) “Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material” (TS-R-1) scheduled for publication in 2012. PHMSA and the U.S.
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OSHA Announces $2.7 M in Harwood Grant Availability
OSHA announced grant availability of approximately $2.75 million for the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program for Targeted Topic training grants. The complete Harwood solicitation for grant applications (SGA) for Targeted Topic training grants is available at http://www.grants.gov.
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EPA Interim Guidelines on Employee Participation in Chemical Safety Inspections
From EPA –
June 22, 2010
EPA to Seek Employee Participation in Chemical Safety Inspections
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released interim guidance that would provide greater transparency in the agency’s chemical safety inspections process.
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House Ed and Labor Dems Raise Alarm on MSHA
From House Education and Labor Committee leadership.. The Inspector General’s report can be found at http://edlabor.house.gov/documents/111/pdf/administration/Alert_Memo_06232010.pdf
MSHA Knowingly Overlooked Mines With Serious Safety Records, Labor Inspector General Reports to Chairman Miller
June 23, 2010 6:31 PM
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S.
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Tales from the Front: June 8 NACOSH Meeting
On June 8, 2010, Adele Abrams, Esq., represented ASSE at the meeting of the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health. Michael Silverstein, MD, of Washington State’s Div. of Occupational Safety and Health is now NACOSH chair. All other NACOSH members were present.
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Tales from the Front: June 16 House Hearing on Gulf Disaster OSH Issues
Heidi Hansen of the Law Office of Adele Abrams attended the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health hearing entitled “HHS Actions to Identify and Address Health Effects of the BP Oil Spill” on June 16, 2010.
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PPHMSA Advisory on Facility Response Plans After Deepwater Oil Spill
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued an Advisory Bulletin to operators of hazardous liquid pipeline facilities required to prepare and submit an oil spill response plan under 49 CFR part 194.
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NIOSH Response Efforts at Deepwater Horizon Disaster
From NIOSH –
Much public and media attention is focused on the environmental and economic aspects of the Deepwater Horizon disaster. NIOSH’s response focuses on protecting the workers and volunteers from injury and illness. Join the discussion at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/blog/nsb062910_oilspill.html.
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CSB to Investigate Root Causes of Deepwater Horizon Accident
US Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) Chairman John Bresland said in a letter to to Chairman Henry Waxman of House Energy and Commerce Committee and Chairman Bart Stupak of Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations that CSB would undertake an investigation of the root causes of the Deepwater Horizon accident.
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Phase 3 of OSHA’s Standards Improvement Project Published
From OSHA –
WASHINGTON – OSHA announced today Standards Improvement Project (SIP)-III (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-15156.htm) a proposed rule to revise and remove requirements within several OSHA standards that are outdated, duplicative or inconsistent.
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NIOSH NORA’s National Manufacturing Agenda Available
From NIOSH –
The National Manufacturing Agenda under the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) is available at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/nora/. The agenda contains ten strategic goals designed to address top safety and health concerns and to promote the greatest opportunities to advance protections within the sector.
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EPA Delays Enforcement on Lead Paint Certification
As indicated in its memo at http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/giles_RRP_memo.pdf the EPA is delaying enforcement until October 1 of the firm certification provisions of its new lead renovation, repair and painting rule. Stakeholders have complained of an inability of obtaining such certification.
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OSHA Sets New Guidelines for Alliances
The leadership at OSHA has set new guidelines for the alliances it signs. ASSE is a proud Alliance partner with OSHA.
from OSHA –
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) works with the public to promote safe and secure workplaces and to enhance worker voice in the workplace.
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ASSE Member Testifies at DC Regulatory Flexibility Hearing
On July 1, 2010, the DC City Council held a public hearing regarding Bill 18-772, the “District Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act of 2010” before DC Council members Cheh and Brown, at which ASSE-National Capital Chapter witness Bruce Donato testified in favor of the bill.
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ASSE VP for CoPA Cecich Represents ASSE at OSHA I2P2 Stakeholders Meeting
The following from Adele Abrams, ASSE’s Federal Representative, reports on the June 20 OSHA stakeholders meeting at the beginning of the rulemaking process intended to end in an injury and illness prevention program standard. No formal testimony was received. The meeting was held in a discussion format.
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OSHA Implements Severe Violators Enforcement Program
From OSHA –
WASHINGTON – OSHA announced today that the Severe Violators Enforcement Program directive is effective June 18th. The agency announced in April that it was implementing the program to focus on employers who continually disregard their legal obligations to protect their workers.
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ASSE Comments on OSH/Mine Reform Bill
ASSE has commented (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/communications/federal/docs/071210HR5366Comment2-esig.docx) on a bill (HR 5663, http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h5663ih.txt.
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GAO Stuff – Food Safety
Food Safety: FDA Has Begun to Take Action to Address Weaknesses in Food Safety Research, but Gaps Remain. GAO-10-182R, April 23. [agriculture and food] http://www.gao.
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PHMSA Proposed HazMat Rulemaking on Packages for Transport by Aircraft
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed to amend requirements in the Hazardous Materials Regulations to enhance the integrity of inner packagings or receptacles of combination packagings containing liquid hazardous material by ensuring they remain intact when subjected to the reduced pressure and other forces
EPA Makes Available Document on Exposure Assessment of PBDEs
EPA has announced the availability of a final report titled, “An Exposure Assessment of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers” (EPA/600/R-08/086F) at .
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EPA Adds Chemicals to Public Database
From EPA –
May 17, 2010
EPA Adds More Than 6,300 Chemicals and 3,800 Chemical Facilities to Public Database
Unprecedented access provided for the first time
WASHINGTON – As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to increase public access to information on chemicals, the U.S.
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Fed Agencies Work to Educate Young Workers on Risks from the Sun
From OSHA –
Through OSHA’s participation in the Federal Network for Young Workers’ Safety and Health (FedNet), we have been made aware of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program entitled SunWise (http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/). The SunWise Program aims to teach people how to protect themselves from overexposure to the sun.
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ASSE Member Reports on Connecticut Action Impacting Chemicals
ASSE members involved in GA-related activities are encouraged to share the work they are doing on behalf of their fellow members. The following summary was prepared by Tom Benedict, who is President of the Connecticut Valley Chapter and shared this with ASSE. Thanks, Tom. The bill can be found at http://www.cga.ct.
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EPA on PCB-Containing Caulk in Renovation
From EPA –
EPA has recently posted new information on its Web site on safe renovation and abatement of buildings that have polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-containing caulk.
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OSHA Adds Technical Amendment on Highway Steel Work to Steel Erection Standard
OSHA’s technical amendment adds a nonmandatory note to its standards governing steel erection. The note provides information concerning existing Federal Highway Administration regulations that may apply to employers engaged in activities covered by OSHA’s steel erection standards.
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Stimulus Dollars to Clean Up GM Properties
From CongressDaily –
REMAINS OF THE BAILOUT. The Obama administration has pitched an $800 million trust fund to cover clean-up costs in closed General Motor Corp. sites in 14 states. It would cover nearly 90 properties closed during the company’s bankruptcy, with more than half in Michigan. The money will be drawn from the $1.
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Mine Review Commission Proposed Rulemaking to Simplify Proceedings
The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission is an independent adjudicatory agency that provides trials and appellate review of cases arising under the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (the “Mine Act”).
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OSHA Announces FY10 Harwood Training Grant Opportunities
OSHA has announced grant availability of approximately $8 million for the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program for Capacity Building grants. The complete Harwood solicitation for grant applications (SGA) for Capacity Building grants is available at: http://www.grants.gov.
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OSHA Thanks Alliance Partners for NAOSH Week Participation
From OSHA Cooperative Programs, which has done amazing work helping ASSE spread the good word about NAOSH Week to the OSH community and beyond –
Thank you to the 40 Alliance Program participants who supported 2010 North American Occupational Safety and Health (NAOSH) Week, May 2 – 8, 2010! Sponsored annually by the American Society of Safet
Oregon OSHA Holding Public Forums on Penalties
From Oregon OSHA –
Oregon’s Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) announces a series of public forums to seek input on the agency’s penalty structure.
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Oregon OSHA Facing Budget Cuts
From OH&S Online at http://ohsonline.com/articles/2010/06/02/cuts-affect-or-osha.aspx?admgarea=news
Freeze, Cuts Affect 14 Percent of OR-OSHA’s Staff
In the agency’s June newsletter, Administrator Michael Wood discussed the moves made in response to a longer-than-expected revenue shortfall.
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OSHA Confirms Effective Date on HexChrome Exposure Determination Provisions
OSHA is confirming the effective date of its direct final rule (DFR) revising the employee notification requirements in the exposure determination provisions of the standards for Hexavalent Chromium
(Cr(VI)).
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House Grants Ed and Labor Committee Deposition Authority for Mine Safety
From House Committee on Education and Labor –
Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives granted the Education and Labor Committee the authority to compel witnesses to give depositions as part of the committee’s oversight into mine health and safety.
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Mine Victim Families Speak at Committee Field Hearing
From House Committee on Education and Labor –
On May 24, Chairman Miller and other Committee members traveled to Beckley, West Virginia to hear from family members of miners killed in the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion. An April 5 explosion in Massey Energy’s Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal, West Virginia killed 29 miners.
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NIOSH Resources on Gulf Oil Disaster
Resources on dealing with the oil spew in the Gulf of Mexico can be found on NIOSH’s website at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/oilspillresponse/.
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New OSHA Design for Safety Web Page/NIOSH Ptd Efforts Advancing
Through ASSE’s Alliance with OSHA, John Mroszczyk has played a vitally important role in helping OSHA develop various resources to advance design for safety, or prevention through design (PtD), as NIOSH is calling its own efforts.
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NACOSH Meeting June 8
The National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) will meet Tuesday, June 8, 2010, in Washington, DC, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Room N-N3437 A/B/C, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210.
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OSHA Seeking Nominations for NACOSH
The Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health David Michaels has invited interested persons to submit nominations for membership on NACOSH. Nominations are due July 20, 2010. NACOSH is comprised of 12 members, all of whom the Secretary of Labor appoints. Nominations will be accepted for five positions.
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OSHA Proposes Rule on Walking-Working Surfaces and PPE (Fall Protection Systems)
OSHA has published a notice of proposed rule to revise the walking-working surfaces standards and the personal protective equipment standards in our regulations.
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GA at Safety 2010 in Baltimore
ASSE greatly appreciates the involvement of safety and health professionals who work in government in its educational programs. Below is a list of those who are involved in Safety 2010 in Baltimore coming up quickly June 13-16 along with other GA-related sessions.
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ASSE Supports Enzi Effort to Protect VPP – Urges Appropriate Competent Person Involvement
ASSE sent a letter (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/communications/federal/docs/051910-Enzi-VPP-letter.docx) to US Senate HELP Committee Chair Michael B. Enzi supporting his budget amendment to restore FY 2011 funding for OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), which the Administration has proposed to cut entirely.
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ASSE Comments on OSHA and MSHA Budget Proposals – Urges Restoring VPP Funding
In a letter (http://www.asse.org/professionalaffairs_new/communications/federal/docs/052010-OSHMSHAbudget-e.docx) to the Chairmen of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, ASSE stated its position on the Administration’s FY 2011 budgets for OSHA and MSHA.
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GAO Stuff – Cruise Ship Security
Maritime Security: Varied Actions Taken to Enhance Cruise Ship Security, but Some Concerns Remain. GAO-10-400, April 9.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-10-400
Highlights – http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d10400high.
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EPA Opens Access to Chem Info
From EPA –
April 29, 2010
EPA Opens Access to Chemical Information
Searchable database on chemical hazard, exposure and toxicity data now available
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making it easier to find chemical information online.
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Few Happy with TSCA Changes
From outside news source –
Chemicals Regulation
Neither industry nor environmental and health activists are satisfied with Congress’ new proposals for reforming the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which governs the manufacture of chemicals.
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OSHA Asks Paperwork Comments on Construction Fall Protection Systems Criteria, Practices, Training Requirements
OSHA seeks comments on its proposal to extend OMB approval of the information collection (paperwork) requirements contained in the construction standards on Fall Protection Systems
Criteria and Practices (29 CFR 1926.502) and Training Requirements (29 CFR 1926.503). Comments are due June 29, 2010. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-10036.
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PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on New Incident Report Forms
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an
ASSE Government Affairs Update – 4.5.13