Workplace Solutions

Washington – United Farm Workers and several community health groups have petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency to immediately suspend widespread use of chlorpyrifos, a neurotoxic pesticide already acknowledged to pose poisoning risks to workers.

Washington – The health care industry commonly uses scavenging systems to protect operating room personnel from exposure to anesthetic gases or vapors that are released or leak out during medical procedures, but other recommended practices are not always observed, according to a recent study from NIOSH.

Washington – In an effort to ease burdens on employers, OSHA has issued a proposed rule that would “remove or revise outdated, duplicative, unnecessary, and inconsistent requirements” in 18 standards concerning recordkeeping, general industry, maritime and construction.

Lansing, MI – The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking to protect workers from hazards linked to asbestos, lead and cadmium that may be encountered during blight removal projects, as part of a one-year state emphasis program launched in September.

Watertown, SD – Precautions and protocols for communication tower workers who climb at night are the focus of the most recent safety video produced by the National Association of Tower Erectors.

Washington – Labor regulations issued during the Obama administration’s final year create a “significant burden” on industries and workers, and will lead to about $80 billion in compliance costs over the next decade, according to a recent report from the National Association of Manufacturers.

Tucker, GA – The U.S. Poultry Foundation, part of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, is seeking proposals on a study to monitor worker exposure to antimicrobials used during poultry processing.

Washington – A chemical compound used to make high-tech products such as flat-panel displays, solar panels and energy-efficient windows may put workers at risk of developing a potentially fatal respiratory condition called indium lung disease, according to a recent study from NIOSH.

An easily accessible, properly working emergency eyewash and shower station is critical at worksites where, in OSHA’s words, “the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials.”