Mining/Oil/Gas

Washington – In his final budget request to Congress, President Barack Obama is seeking to increase funding for several safety agencies, including OSHA and the Chemical Safety Board.

Arlington, VA – The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit on Jan. 25 rejected two challenges from coal industry groups about a Mine Safety and Health Administration final rule intended to lower miner exposure to coal mine dust.

Arlington, VA – Three coal mining deaths occurred during the first three weeks of 2016, the highest number to occur in that time period since January 2006, according to the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Atlanta – Safety and health professionals “need to recognize and act on nonfatal warning signs and symptoms” to protect oil and gas workers in hydrocarbon storage tanks, according to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Arlington, VA – Last year, 28 miners died on the job – the lowest total on record, according to preliminary data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has initiated a pilot program in an effort to improve safety at offshore oil and gas operations.

Washington – Rubber-type hoses used in deluge-type water spray and water sprinkler systems could pose safety hazards and are not as effective as steel piping, according to a new safety alert from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – In-vehicle monitoring systems combined with supervisory coaching could help reduce risky driving behaviors among workers in the oil and gas industry, in which motor vehicle-related incidents are the leading cause of death, according to NIOSH.

Arlington, VA – Seven miners died during the third quarter of 2015, bringing the total death toll through September to 25, according to preliminary data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – After months of delays, Chemical Safety Board members approved the agency’s final investigation report on a 2009 Caribbean Petroleum refinery explosion that injured three people and damaged about 300 homes near San Juan, Puerto Rico.