Transportation

Washington – The number and rate of workers killed on the job in 2013 declined from 2012, according to preliminary data released Sept. 11 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Washington – Federal officials are taking steps to prevent deadly incidents similar to one that occurred in 2013, when an unattended freight train shipping crude oil derailed and exploded in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, killing 47 people.

Washington – OSHA is seeking nominations for membership on its Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health.

Lansing, MI – The Michigan Department of Transportation has launched a communication system intended to help truckers find available parking along one of the region’s busiest corridors.

Hartford, CT – Two U.S. senators have unveiled wide-ranging legislation aimed at improving rail safety after a series of high-profile incidents in recent years.

Washington – In response to a pair of helicopter crashes near offshore oil platforms, the National Transportation Safety Board has published several safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents.

San Francisco – Pilots and cabin crew have about twice the incidence of melanoma – the most serious type of skin cancer – compared to the general population, a recent study indicates.

Washington – The White House has delayed important safety proposals, and new investigations highlight the damaging effects of budget cuts for safety and health agencies, concludes an annual review conducted by two prominent public health bloggers.

Sacramento, CA – Millions of California workers may soon receive paid sick days, following the state legislature’s Aug. 30 passage of a bill (A.B. 1522) requiring employers to provide sick leave.

Washington – New York state will have the country’s “toughest” distracted driving penalties for teens, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association.