Labor

Arlington, VA – Minimum penalties for some mining violations would increase under a proposed rule from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – A recently released NIOSH report offers advice on employer policies for working in extreme heat.

Indianapolis – The risk of injury and death at grain-handling facilities can be reduced by recognizing the dangers and taking necessary precautions, the Indiana Department of Labor states.

Tumwater, WA – The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries’ Division of Occupational Safety and Health has released a bulletin that warns about the hazards of bark and mulch blower systems.

St. Paul, MN – Minnesota OSHA is advising the state’s employers and employees to prepare for severe weather this summer.

Arlington, VA – More mining deaths occurred during the first half of 2014 than during the same time period last year, according to a fatality update from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public comment as part of a multi-agency effort to improve safety and security at chemical facilities.

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency has reissued a warning to home improvement contractors and air-conditioning technicians about using flammable refrigerants.

Washington – Coal miners seeking benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act wait hundreds of days for their cases to be heard, despite government efforts to speed up the process, Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) claimed during a July 22 hearing of the Senate Employment and Workplace Safety Subcommittee.

Besancon, France – Although the majority of woodworking injuries stem from hobby-related activities, the most serious incidents take place on the job, according to a recent study.