Labor

Atlanta – A radiology practice in eastern Kentucky diagnosed 60 current or former coal miners with progressive massive fibrosis – the most severe case of black lung disease – between January 2015 and August 2016, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency has released requirements intended to prevent poisonings involving the herbicide paraquat, which can result in death or injuries through ingestion or skin or eye exposure.

Washington – A total of 4,836 deaths due to workplace injuries occurred in 2015 – a 0.3 percent increase over 2014 and the most since 5,214 workers died in 2008, according to data released Dec. 16 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Washington – OSHA has released a final rule to help clarify for employers their “ongoing obligation” to make and maintain accurate records of work-related recordable injuries and illnesses.

Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration has released its annual safety alert to call attention to the unique hazards the mining industry faces during the winter months.

Washington – President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to nominate fast-food executive Andrew Puzder as secretary of labor is eliciting strong reactions – both positive and negative.

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to ban certain uses of the chemical trichloroethylene because of health risks associated with the toxic chemical when used as a degreaser and spot removal agent in dry cleaning.

Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration took time on Dec. 6 to honor the hundreds of workers who died in the worst mining disaster in U.S. history, and to recognize those who work in the industry today, as part of National Miners Day.

Washington – OSHA has announced a Request for Information on whether the agency should propose a standard aimed at preventing workplace violence in the health care and social assistance sectors.

Seattle – Seattle voters on Nov. 8 approved a measure intended to make working conditions safer for the roughly 7,500 workers in the city’s hotel industry, including housekeepers, room service servers and other employees.