Construction & Utilities

Montreal – Most construction workers exposed to crystalline silica dust are at risk of developing occupational diseases over the long term, a new report from scientific research organization IRSST suggests.

Washington – Dorothy Dougherty has been appointed as OSHA’s new assistant administrator, the agency announced Jan. 30.

East Lansing, MI – Conducting work at home on a smartphone at night may make it hard for employees to sleep, leaving them with less energy the next day, according to two new studies from Michigan State University.

Washington – Employers do not have to pay workers for time spent putting on and taking off personal protective equipment, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Jan. 27.

Guildford, England – Shift work may throw off the daily rhythm of the body’s genes, according to a new study from the University of Surrey.

Washington – For the second time, OSHA has extended the public comment period on proposed updates to its crystalline silica rule, the agency announced Jan. 24.

Washington – OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet March 11 in Washington.

Washington – Employers required to keep and maintain an OSHA 300 injury and illness log must post their 300A summary sheet in the workplace by Feb. 1.

Wigston, England – The use of digital tools when designing construction projects can help make worksites safer, according to a report released Jan. 20.

Washington – A $1 trillion appropriations bill, signed by President Barack Obama on Jan. 17, funds the federal government – including safety agencies – for the remainder of the current fiscal year (which ends Sept. 30).