Government Affairs Updates

North Carolina Workplace Deaths Dropped 40 Percent in 2009

Wednesday, February 10th

See full story from WRAL.com at http://www.wral.com/business/story/6887870/

N.C. workplace deaths dropped 40 percent in 2009
Posted: Jan. 26, 2010

RALEIGH, N.C. — Accidental workplace fatalities dropped by 40 percent last year, from 57 to 34, according to figures released Tuesday by the state Department of Labor.
“The good news is fewer people died on the job in 2009 than at any other time in our state’s history,” Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry said in a statement. “However, the only acceptable number is zero….”

In this update:

OSHA Listens Postponed
ASSE Joins Safety and Health Groups in Urging Commitment to Safety in Jobs Bill
FY 11 Budget Season for Safety and Health Agencies Begin
From the Department of Labor, on the Budget
OSHA Proposes MSD Column for OSHA 300 Log
OSHA Withdraws Rulemaking on Fit-testing Protocols
MSHA Seeks Info on Proximity Detection Systems for Underground Mines
MSHA Seeks Feedback on Proximity Detection Systems
OSHA Makes Injury/Illness Data Available in Searchable Database
NIOSH PtD Update – ASSE Webinar on PtD and Tech Report
MSHA Begins “Rules to Live By” Campaign
EPA on Its Budget Request
EPA Seeks Improved Transparency on Chemical Risks
PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Leak Detection
PHMSA Amends Packaging Amendments
PHMSA Proposes Adjustments to Registration and Fee Assessment Program
EPA Strengthens Nitrogen Dioxide Standard
Media Investigates Cal OSHA
North Carolina Workplace Deaths Dropped 40 Percent in 2009
In 2009, Workplace Violence Spikes in Washington State
We Need Your Help – Message to ASSE Members from Jim Thornton, ASSE GAC Chair
ASSE President Chris Patton Speaks for Members at OSHA Listens
ASSE Testifies at OSHA Public Hearing on Harmonizing Hazard Communication with GHS
ASSE Effort in Florida Has Grown to a Coalition
OSHA Extends Comment Period for 300 Log Ergo Column Rulemaking