News

Washington — As expected, the Department of Labor’s regulatory agenda for Spring 2021 – the first under the Biden administration – features some changes, most significantly a forthcoming proposed rule from OSHA that would restore two parts of the agency’s injury and illness recordkeeping regulations.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has announced plans to repeal the basic face covering and physical distancing requirements in its COVID-19 workplace protection rules when 70% of the state’s residents are at least partially vaccinated against the virus.

Columbus, OH — Workplace exposure to COVID-19 is a substantial factor in the “disproportionately high” rate of cases and deaths among Latinos in the United States when compared with whites, results of a recent study by researchers from Ohio State University and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee show.

San Francisco — Individuals in their 20s and 30s with cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity and high levels of blood glucose may face a greater risk of developing cognitive and memory decline later in life, according to a study recently published by the American Academy of Neurology.

Boston — Workers who took on extra job duties or became caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced higher levels of stress and anxiety, negatively impacting their well-being and motivation, results of a recent study show.

Itasca, IL — In an effort to help employers and workers mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and develop techniques to prevent these injuries, the National Safety Council is teaming up with Amazon to establish new research, technology and processes as part of a five-year partnership to combat a leading cause of workplace injuries.

Washington — OSHA has issued an emergency temporary standard on COVID-19 that focuses on health care workers, as well as updated guidance for other workplaces and additional resources.

Sacramento, CA — Six days after voting to readopt California’s emergency temporary standard that requires employers to protect workers from COVID-19-related hazards, the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board voted unanimously to withdraw the revisions.

Itasca, IL — Motor vehicle-related crashes are the leading cause of preventable death for teens. Parents and caregivers: Be part of the solution. Join the National Safety Council at 11 a.m. Central on June 22 to learn about DriveitHOME, an NSC initiative intended to help keep new drivers safe.

New York — Employees who feel stressed say their minds can wander for up to nearly 60% of the workday by the time Friday rolls around, according to the results of a recent study conducted by a global research, leadership development and consulting firm.