Washington — The Department of Labor’s regulatory agenda for Fall 2021, released Dec. 10, includes a proposed rule that – should OSHA decide to move forward on it – would revoke Arizona’s State Plan status.

Washington — The Senate on Dec. 9 confirmed two new members to serve on the Chemical Safety Board, boosting the profile of an agency that – for more than 18 months – has carried on with only one of its five board seats filled.

Arlington, VA — Officials from the Mine Safety and Health Administration covered familiar ground Dec. 14 during a conference call for industry stakeholders.

In Episode 22, the S+H editorial team discusses how workers and employers can combat complacency on the job. Also, communications consultant John Capecci shares tips and advice for safety professionals on how to become a better public speaker.

Darien, IL — Promoting heathy sleep habits among health care workers is the goal of a new tip sheet from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Itasca, IL — Programmed inspections related to preventing heat-related illnesses are likely coming this summer, an OSHA official announced during a Dec. 9 National Safety Council webinar on the agency’s current activities.

Silver Spring, MD — The nation’s largest union and professional association of registered nurses is urging Congress to pass pending legislation that would “end the industry-created nurse staffing crisis” by setting mandated staffing levels in hospitals, as well as take other actions that would improve working conditions for nurses.

Richmond, VA — The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Dec. 7 denied former Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship’s attempt to overturn his 2015 conviction stemming from a deadly 2010 explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine in Montcoal, WV.

Chicago — Contending that COVID-19 vaccines are critical to protect workers and ease the pandemic’s strain on the U.S. health care system, the American Medical Association is offering its support for OSHA’s emergency temporary standard on COVID-19 vaccination, testing and masking.

Washington — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration once again is extending its temporary hours-of-service exemptions and other regulatory relief for commercial truck drivers transporting items intended to assist with COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts.