Labor

Frankfort, KY – A sharp downturn in the coal mining industry is prompting some lawmakers in Kentucky to consider ending state safety inspections of coal mines.

Boca Raton, FL – Workers who lack paid sick leave are more likely to delay or reject medical treatment than workers who have paid sick leave, according to a study from Florida Atlantic University.

Washington – OSHA has extended, to May 2, the deadline to submit comments on the agency’s draft document on using the “weight of evidence” approach to classifying hazardous chemicals.

Washington – Since 2000, 17 deaths – including three cases involving children – have occurred due to ingestion of the herbicide paraquat, and the Environmental Protection Agency is proposing measures aimed at protecting workers and preventing poisonings.

Ithaca, NY – Every week in the United States, as many as 3 million employees – about 2 percent of the workforce – work while they're sick, according to research from Cornell University.

Washington – NIOSH and the Environmental Protection Agency are seeking public comments on worker exposure to 1-Bromopropane, a potentially hazardous chemical found in certain industries.

Orlando, FL – About 1 in 2 U.S. adults has a musculoskeletal disorder, costing an estimated $213 billion each year in treatment and lost wages, according to a report from the United States Bone and Joint Initiative.

Washington – The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has published an update to its 2014 technical review regarding fastener failures in offshore drilling.

Washington – National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health members recently approved recommendations on OSHA’s draft Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines.

Oklahoma City – The law that allows Oklahoma employers to opt out of traditional workers’ compensation is unconstitutional, the state’s Workers’ Compensation Commission said in a new ruling that deals a blow to proponents of so-called “option” legislation.