Labor

A government shutdown would limit OSHA inspections to “life and property,” and a new initiative on respirable crystalline silica wouldn’t “get off the ground,” agency administrator Doug Parker said Sept. 27.

Washington — A new OSHA initiative is aimed at protecting workers in the engineered stone fabrication and installation industries from silica exposure.

Bilbao, Spain — As on-the-job use of drones expands, workers should be trained on the technology’s capabilities – including communication basics – to ensure safe workplaces, a new report states.

The National Safety Council is encouraging its members to participate in a survey being conducted by design safety engineering about about the voluntary standard Control of Hazardous Energy: Lockout/Tagout and Alternative Methods.

Washington — A Mine Safety and Health Administration proposed rule intended to reduce worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica “does not demand enough from operators,” Reps. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Alma Adams (D-NC) claim.

Tempe, AZ — A recent study indicates that many welding workers believe some of their tasks don’t warrant the use of personal protective equipment.

Waterloo, Ontario — Workers in moderately hazardous environments may be more likely than those in highly hazardous workplaces to underestimate the degree of safe behaviors needed to avoid injury or illness.

Washington — Reps. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Alma Adams (D-NC) are again asking Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), chair of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, to convene a hearing on child labor violations.

Washington — A House committee has approved legislation that would set a limit on how long an acting secretary can lead the Department of Labor.

Washington — The Chemical Safety Board says it “appreciates” a recent Environmental Protection Agency initiative that emphasizes compliance at chemical facilities that use the toxic substance hydrogen fluoride.