Labor

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency says compliance dates for its ban on uses of methylene chloride have been extended for nonfederal laboratories involved in “the industrial or commercial use” of the carcinogenic chemical “in a laboratory process or in specialized laboratory equipment.”

Springfield, IL — A 14-state coalition is calling on the Trump administration to withdraw a proposed rule that would limit OSHA’s ability to hold employers accountable for known hazards in “inherently risky professions.”

Chicago — A recent study of 246 drivers killed in traffic crashes over a nearly six-year period found that over 40% had active THC – the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis – in their system.

Arlington, VA — Alarmed by numerous serious incidents involving contract truck drivers in the past five years, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert.

Toronto — For surface miners, working near water exposes them to “a variety of risks – including drowning and slope stability hazards – and requires special planning,” the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association says.

Washington — A coalition of 19 worker unions says it’s “deeply concerned” about how worker safety would be affected by proposed Environmental Protection Agency rollbacks to provisions of the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976.

Seoul, South Korea — Worker exposure to air pollution “may significantly increase the risk of safety liability accidents” in multiple industries, according to the results of a recent study.

Montreal — A recent study of apprentice welders revealed a “significant increase” in metal levels in urine, nail and hair samples taken over the duration of their three-module training program.

Washington — A House bill that would extend OSHA protections to public sector employees now has 50 co-sponsors, the bill’s sponsor recently announced.

Washington — Alarmed by a “recurring trend” of equipment misuse contributing to fire and explosion hazards during offshore oil and gas operations, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has issued a safety alert.