Labor

Honolulu – In an effort to reduce workplace deaths and injuries in the Pacific region’s retail industry, OSHA has launched a Local Emphasis Program.

Arlington, VA – Deaths in the mining industry increased in 2013, but overall injuries declined, according to recently released preliminary data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Indianapolis – OSHA’s recent investigation into Indiana’s State Plan program resulted in several “valid observations and useful recommendations,” the state said in its response sent to federal OSHA on April 11.

Washington – The Office of Management and Budget has begun its review of an OSHA proposal to address outdated permissible exposure limits.

Research Triangle Park, NC – The second phase of a study to evaluate the health of cleanup workers who responded to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill is beginning, and researchers are encouraging participants to stay involved with the project.

Washington – Automobile dealerships should remain exempt from OSHA’s injury and illness recordkeeping requirements, the National Automobile Dealers Association stated during a March 26 meeting officials from OSHA and the Office of Management and Budget.

Washington – The Mine Safety and Health Administration needs to take additional steps to deter the underreporting of workplace incidents, injuries and illnesses, according to a new audit report from the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

Sacramento, CA – Federal agency statistics vastly undercount the number of nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the agricultural industry, according to a new study from the University of California Davis School of Medicine.

Washington – In response to an airport shooting in November 2013, the Transportation Security Administration has released a report detailing the agency’s efforts to increase employee training, communication and support.

Washington – Although several stakeholders have voiced support for OSHA’s efforts to improve its Process Safety Management Standard, some industry associations are urging the agency to maintain current, specific exemptions.