S+H Staff

Washington — Stating that “extensive research has confirmed no direct link between processing speeds and workplace injuries” at pork- and poultry-processing plants, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says it will “formalize” faster line speeds initially allowed at certain facilities as part of a trial period.

Arlington, VA — The Mine Safety and Health Administration has scheduled several meetings to “provide information and answer questions” ahead of the fast-approaching compliance date for its final rule on miner exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

Fewer pedestrians were killed during the first half of last year compared with the first six months of 2023, yet the total is still well above that from a decade earlier, the Governors Highway Safety Association says.

Bootle, England — Responding to an uptick of incidents involving attendant ships colliding with offshore oil and gas and renewable energy structures, Great Britain’s Health and Safety Executive has issued a safety advisory.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency has extended to April 2 the deadline to comment on a draft scope document for the agency’s risk evaluation of vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen.

Augusta, ME — A bill recently introduced in the Maine Legislature would amend state law to allow employees younger than 16 to work expanded hours throughout the year.

Washington — President Donald Trump has nominated Derek Barrs to lead the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Washington — Adrienne Camire is no longer acting and deputy administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, after spending about two weeks on the job.

New York — The number of construction workers killed in New York state jumped 48% in 2023 from 2022, translating to an 8.3% increase in the fatality rate, according to a recent report from a worker advocacy group.

Arlington, VA — Around half of workers don’t wear proper personal protective equipment because they either don’t want to or don’t consider it necessary, according to a recent study of employers.