Boston — Improved air quality in offices can boost worker focus, response times and overall cognitive ability, researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health claim.

Albany, NY — Legislation signed into law by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) on Oct. 28 expands whistleblower protections for the state’s private-sector employees.

Washington — The majority of truck drivers will be exempt from OSHA’s emergency temporary standard on COVID-19 vaccination, testing and masking, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said during a recent TV interview.

Munster, Germany — Neck and shoulder problems are common musculoskeletal disorders among dentists, leading more than 1 out of 5 to seek medical care, a recent study out of Germany shows.

Tumwater, WA — A new toolkit from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries offers employers resources they can use to help injured employees return to work as soon as medically possible, aid worker recovery and prevent long-term disability while reducing the financial burden of workers’ compensation claims.

Many employers have questions about OSHA’s recordkeeping requirements – and the criteria for recordability – regarding COVID-19.

Washington — President Joe Biden has nominated Christopher Williamson to lead the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

New Orleans — The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has halted the implementation and enforcement of OSHA’s emergency temporary standard on COVID-19 vaccination, testing and masking, granting a stay Nov. 12.

In Episode 21, the S+H editorial team discusses an emerging cannabis impairment issue: delta-8 THC. Also, John Newquist, an author, trainer, consultant and former OSHA inspector, shares his insights on scaffolding safety.

Greenbelt, MD — Every day for the past several years, Brian McQueen has felt the left side of his neck and wondered if his non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma will return.