Labor

The AFL-CIO, the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, and the National Safety Council are among the organizations renewing the call for improved worker protections as part of Workers’ Memorial Week (April 23-30).

Orlando, FL – Obese workers who took part in a structured weight-loss program reported fewer hours missed on the job after six months, a recent University of Michigan study shows.

Sacramento, CA – California could become the first state to require professional cosmetics manufacturers to list ingredients – including hazardous chemicals – on their product labels.

Tuscaloosa, AL – Many workers are unsure about their organizations' policies regarding e-cigarettes, according to a recent study from the University of Alabama.

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency on April 18 announced it is extending public comment periods on two proposed rules: one for the toxic chemical trichloroethylene when used as a commercial vapor degreaser, and the other for methylene chloride and N-methylpyrrolidone, also known as NMP, in paint and coating removal.

Washington – Ryan Hill will be director of NIOSH’s Western States Division beginning May 1, NIOSH announced April 18.

Utrecht, The Netherlands – On-the-job exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields may double men’s risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, according to a new study from researchers in The Netherlands.

Fairfax, VA – A safety stand-down for firefighters and emergency services workers, slated to take place June 18-24, will feature the theme “MAYDAY, Self Rescue, and Rapid Intervention.”

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency has revised label instructions for products with water-soluble packaging in an effort to protect pesticide handlers from exposure to toxins.

Washington – OSHA needs to do more to ensure employers correct hazards that are identified during inspections, according to a recent audit from the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.