S+H Staff

Washington – In the face of sequestration, the Department of Labor on March 4 celebrated its 100th anniversary. In March 1913, President William Howard Taft signed into law legislation creating DOL and the Cabinet position of secretary of labor.

Washington – OSHA has revoked 24 permanent variances regarding falling object protection and fall protection requirements, saying revisions to the agency's scaffold standards have made the variances unnecessary.

Washington – OSHA will be soliciting feedback on the effectiveness of crane operator certification requirements in the Cranes and Derricks in Construction Standard during two informal stakeholder meetings scheduled for April 2-3 in Washington.

Sacramento, CA – Reacting to a Chevron refinery fire last year that resulted in thousands of people seeking medical attention after breathing toxic emissions, a California lawmaker has introduced legislation to require abatement of unsafe conditions during any appeals process.

Washington – Railroad workers in safety-critical positions get less sleep than other U.S. working adults during the workweek and are at risk for fatigue and sleep disorders, according to a recent report from the Federal Railroad Administration.

Washington – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has scheduled a listening session on March 22 on commercial motor vehicle driver entry-level training requirements.

Washington – An internal review of OSHA’s Severe Violator Enforcement Program found the program is meeting its key goals and is “off to a strong start,” but particular challenges regarding the construction industry remain.

Washington – The OSHA Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health has scheduled a special meeting March 18 in Washington to consider proposed changes to two agency construction standards.

Beckley, WV – A longtime Massey Energy Co. executive recently pleaded guilty to conspiring to impede the Mine Safety and Health Administration and violate safety laws.

When it comes to timelines, it seems the government is not rushing to stay on task.