Agriculture/Forestry/Fishing

Washington – The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public comment regarding a proposal to remove 72 chemicals from its list of substances that are approved for use in pesticide products.

Chapel Hill, NC – Nearly half of hog workers may carry drug-resistant bacteria in their noses after they leave work, potentially spreading the bacteria to their families and others, according to a recent study from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and John Hopkins University.

Washington – Two members of Congress are broadening their effort to protect children as young as 12 from working in tobacco fields.

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.

Portland, OR – The Oregon Occupational Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation has issued a hazard alert on the dangers of crab fishing.

Washington – Noting the high number of farm-related deaths involving vehicles and equipment, OSHA on Aug. 15 released two QuickCards intended to educate employers on protecting agricultural workers from these hazards.

Falls Church, VA – Legislation proposing to lower the working age in the logging industry is receiving pushback from a worker health organization.

Washington – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s controversial final rule on its New Poultry Inspection System is set to be published and, in response to public comment, will not increase the maximum speed of processing lines.

Washington – After a recent visit with workers in tobacco fields and labor camps in North Carolina, members of an international delegation said they were shocked and saddened to see widespread worker abuse.

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.