Labor

Madisonville, KY – A new mine rescue station in Kentucky aims to improve response times to mine emergencies in the Midwest.

Montreal – Emergency dispatchers who work at 911 call centers face a variety of physical and mental challenges in a high-stress environment, according to a study conducted by scientific research organization IRSST.

Washington – On-the-job fatalities in 2014 increased to 4,679, more than one-third of which occurred among older workers, according to a preliminary report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Washington – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has granted an hours-of-service exemption to truck drivers who transport hazardous materials.

Washington – A new OSHA directive outlines procedures for the agency’s new process in assisting early resolution of whistleblower disputes.

Washington – Congressional Democrats are urging President Barack Obama to issue an Executive Order that grants paid sick leave to federal contractors.

Washington – The Department of Labor and the Kentucky Labor Cabinet have signed an agreement to ensure employees in the Bluegrass State are not misclassified as independent contractors.

Washington – The Department of Labor must do more to protect sheepherders and other livestock workers from unsafe conditions, according to advocacy group Public Citizen.

Washington – A new database from watchdog group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility lists workplace chemical exposure readings taken during OSHA inspections.

Washington – The Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is currently conducting audits of three OSHA programs, with two other audits planned, OIG stated in its semiannual report to Congress.