Labor

Tallahassee, FL — Legislation recently introduced in Florida would require employers to take measures – including providing water breaks and shaded rest areas – to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat.

Washington — President Donald Trump has nominated former congressman Anthony D’Esposito to be the Department of Labor inspector general.

Washington — Now available from the Chemical Safety Board: additional information on 25 serious chemical releases.

St. Catharines, Ontario — Exoskeletons could help prevent lower back injuries that stem from lifting objects, according to a recent study out of Canada.

Washington — The Department of Health and Human Services will reportedly cut two-thirds of NIOSH’s staff – more than 870 employees – as part of a restructuring plan announced March 27.

Washington — Chemical facilities have made significant advancements in safety in the 20 years since a deadly BP refinery explosion in Texas City, TX, the Chemical Safety Board says.

Washington — With the spring tornado season ramping up, OSHA is calling on employers to develop an emergency plan, learn the warning signs, and monitor tornado watches and warnings.

Sacramento, CA — Employees in California who have “reasonable concerns about health and safety violations” would be allowed to refuse work while still receiving full pay, under legislation introduced in late February.

Springfield, IL — Legislation that would direct the Illinois Department of Labor to establish – by Jan. 1 – standards intended to protect workers from excessive heat and cold is advancing in the state House.

Washington — Because of the variety of different respiratory hazards health care workers are exposed to on the job, knowing the difference between types of respiratory protection is key.