News

Underground construction and demolition work will no longer have a separate Cranes and Derricks Standard.

OSHA will be conducting more unannounced inspections in the Southeast on fall hazards.

OSHA is among several agencies exploring the idea of a performance-based regulatory model for the oil and gas industry.

Have a great idea for a mobile app that educates and provides workplace safety information? Develop it and you could win a cash prize from OSHA.

The 25th Annual Alabama Governor’s Safety and Health Conference, originally scheduled for this week, has been canceled due to a mandatory hurricane evacuation order caused by Tropical Storm Isaac.

Notable proposed fines

$74,400 to a Georgia recycling facility for alleged violations that include failing to have a lockout/tagout program, using damaged forklifts and a lack of appropriate guarding

$55,500 to a manufacturing facility based in Pennsylvania for alleged amputation hazards

$7,000 each to two New Jersey companies in connection to the heat-related death of a sanitation worker

Review counter

The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs – part of the White House’s Office of Management and Budget – reviews proposed regulations. The process is required for most rules before they can move forward, and typically takes 90 days.

Below is a count of how many days recent OSHA proposals have been under review, as of today:

• 560 days – Silica (proposed rule)
• 279 days – Modernizing OSHA’s reporting system for injuries and illnesses (proposed rule)
• 61 days – Electric power transmission and distribution; electrical protective equipment (final rule)
• 4 days – Standards Improvement Project IV (pre-rule)

Happening this week

Aug. 30 – Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission meeting to discuss enhancing case resolution efficiency and effectiveness

Happy Labor Day

Due to Labor Day on Sept. 3, OSHA Roundup will return Tuesday, Sept. 4. Have a safe and happy holiday.

The opinions expressed in "Washington Wire" do not necessarily reflect those of the National Safety Council or affiliated local Chapters.