S+H Staff

The first course in this module is designed for employees who perform servicing and maintenance activities on de-energized equipment. The second course is for employees managing the program and focuses on the proper requirements for developing, implementing and sustaining a safe and compliant lockout/tagout program.

OSHA recently rescinded a compliance directive that allowed residential construction workers to use “alternative” fall protection measures, and announced a new directive. Although some safety experts think the new directive will have a positive impact on safety, others believe it may create more hazards.

In this month’s cover story, Associate Editor Lauretta Claussen examines workplace stress and its link to long-term health problems – and possibly even workplace injuries. She also speaks with experts who point out steps both employers and employees can take to help reduce the number of situations in which employees feel their only option is to tough it out – and deal with any health repercussions later.

Atlanta – A new module that provides cost estimates for injury deaths, hospitalizations and nonfatal injury visits to emergency rooms was released Feb. 25 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.

Having a well-stocked first aid kit and knowing how to use it can mean the difference between a minor injury and a major problem.

Ladders are basic tools that can lead some people to discount the dangerous nature of them. If proper safety precautions are not followed, ladder users easily could fall and suffer serious injuries or even death.

Product Focus: Respiratory protection

Washington – Commercial motor vehicle drivers who operate vehicles containing hazardous materials will be prohibited from texting while driving, according to a final rule from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

For many workers, breathing clean air is so natural that it barely requires a second thought. But when safe, hazard-free air is not readily available, respiratory protection comes into play.

Washington – OSHA on Feb. 25 issued a final rule that will increase fees for nationally recognized testing laboratories.