Labor

Morgantown, WV – The prevalence of a severe form of black lung disease has increased recently to levels not seen in about 40 years, new NIOSH data shows.

Atlanta – Emergency medicine practitioners have an up-close view of the deaths and injuries that can result from texting while driving. Yet when they are not working, physicians, nurses, residents and other emergency health care providers often engage in the same dangerous driving habits, according to a study from Emory University School of Medicine.

San Diego – In a rebuke to behavior-based safety theories, OSHA administrator David Michaels said occupational injuries are not the result of workers’ personal choices, and that blaming workers for their own injuries must stop.

Indianapolis – In 2013, 123 Indiana workers died – an increase from 115 in 2012 – but it was still the third lowest number recorded, according to the Indiana Department of Labor.

Springfield, IL – With National Farm Safety and Health Week (Sept. 20-27) approaching, the Energy Education Council’s Safe Electricity program is reminding farmers and other agriculture workers to practice safety when working near overhead power lines.

Washington – With the current Ebola outbreak spreading throughout West Africa, OSHA is providing resources to help protect workers from the disease.

Washington – President Barack Obama has designated Patrick Nakamura as acting chairman of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission.

Seoul, South Korea – Working more than 40 hours per week increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease, indicates a new study from Seoul National University.

Farmington, CT – The overall rate of occupational diseases in Connecticut declined between 2011 and 2012, but still remains higher than the national average, according to a recent study from the University of Connecticut Health Center.

Washington – Beginning next year, employers will be required to report all in-patient hospitalizations and amputations to OSHA, under a final rule released Sept. 11.