News

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency has extended until Dec. 19 the comment period on a draft risk evaluation that states the chemical substance Pigment Violet 29 presents unreasonable risk to workers under certain conditions.

Itasca, IL — Employers will have to continue COVID-19-related safety measures well into the new year – likely through the summer, according to Justin Rodriguez, a partner with the Boston Consulting Group.

Melbourne, Australia — Musculoskeletal disorders cost people around the world nearly 140 million years lost to ill-health, disability or early death, results a recent study out of Australia and Iran indicate.

Austin, TX — Allowing construction and other high-contact work to continue without restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have increased transmission of the disease in both the industry and the surrounding community, according to a study led by researchers from the University of Texas.

Washington — Although some state drug laws recently have been revised to legalize marijuana, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is reminding officials that the federal government’s Drug-Free Workplace Program has not changed.

Lansing, MI — Michigan OSHA is increasing its presence on construction sites and in manufacturing facilities as part of two state emphasis programs launched Nov. 16 in an effort to help ensure employers in these industries protect their workers from exposure to COVID-19.

Washington — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is providing $1.5 million for research aimed at reducing occupational hazards in health care and manufacturing via the development and use of collaborative robots, or “cobots.”

Seoul, South Korea — Drinking alcohol on a daily basis – even in small amounts – could be bad for your waistline and overall health, say researchers from the National Medical Center.

Washington — A pair of new guidance documents from OSHA outline measures employers should take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of heat-related illness among workers wearing cloth facial coverings in hot and humid conditions or performing strenuous tasks.

Washington — Bruce Walker is now a senior advisor to the Chemical Safety Board. According to a Nov. 17 press release, Walker will work in policy and outreach in support of Katherine Lemos, CSB’s chair, CEO and lone board member.