Mining/Oil/Gas

Arlington, VA — Miners exposed to lead dust or fumes at work need to be wearing an air-purifying respirator with high-efficiency filters, the Mine Safety and Health Administration says in a recent health alert.

Washington — Two House Democrats are calling on the Department of Labor to confirm whether it’s enforcing a rule that requires self-insured coal mine operators to “post adequate security for their benefit liabilities.”

Washington — Offshore oil and gas rig operators should ensure contractors review safety measures with qualified operations staff before working with pressurized systems or valves, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement advises.

Washington — The Mine Safety and Health Administration will “engage in limited rulemaking to reconsider” portions of a final rule on miner exposure to respirable crystalline silica that’s being challenged in ongoing litigation.

Arlington, VA — Alarmed by numerous serious incidents involving contract truck drivers in the past five years, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert.

Toronto — For surface miners, working near water exposes them to “a variety of risks – including drowning and slope stability hazards – and requires special planning,” the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association says.

Seoul, South Korea — Worker exposure to air pollution “may significantly increase the risk of safety liability accidents” in multiple industries, according to the results of a recent study.

Washington — Alarmed by a “recurring trend” of equipment misuse contributing to fire and explosion hazards during offshore oil and gas operations, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has issued a safety alert.

Arlington, VA — Concerned about a recent series of fatal and nonfatal incidents related to operating mobile equipment, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert.

Washington — Offshore oil and gas operators and contractors should keep high-traffic areas clear of obstructions and safely maintained, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement states in a recent safety alert.