S+H Staff

Charleston, WV – Massey Energy’s new owner agreed to pay an unprecedented $209 million in civil and criminal penalties related to the April 2010 explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine-South. The blast killed 29 miners.

Washington – During a Nov. 15 meeting with government officials, representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce raised concerns about OSHA’s proposed rule to update the Hazard Communication Standard.

Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration on Dec. 1 announced new procedures aimed at reducing the backlog of violations being reviewed by the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission.

Tumwater, WA – Overall workers’ compensation rates will remain the same in Washington state in 2012, the State Department of Labor and Industries announced Dec. 1.

Washington – A new training program from NIOSH aims to help miners practice making decisions during an underground mine emergency.

Boston – Working irregular night shifts may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in women, indicates new research from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Washington – The Federal Railroad Administration recently released a safety advisory on fall protection for railroad bridge workers following three incidents that occurred between 2008 and 2011, one of which resulted in a fatality.

Norwalk, CT – Adult drivers engage in activities such as texting, eating, watching videos and surfing the Internet while driving, according to a new online poll conducted by market research firm Harris Interactive and HealthDay, a producer of health news.

Quincy, MA – An average of 53 fatalities and 546 injuries occurred as a result of fires in high-rise buildings each year between 2005 and 2009, according to a new report from the National Fire Protection Association.

Washington – Employees who are allowed to vary their work hours based on individual needs see improved well-being, according to a new study from the University of Minnesota.