Federal Agencies

Washington — The Federal Railroad Administration has issued a final rule revising the agency’s regulation on highway rail-grade crossing action plans to require 40 states and the District of Columbia to develop and implement – and update, if applicable – FRA-approved action plans.

Prominent worker safety experts weigh in on likely changes for the agency under the Biden administration.

Washington — The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement and the Department of Energy have established a five-year grant opportunity of up to $40 million for the operation and maintenance of a revamped independent research institute focused on fostering the safety of offshore energy operations, the agencies announced Nov. 23.

Washington — OSHA has updated its Site-Specific Targeting Program, the agency announced Dec. 16. OSHA’s primary targeting program for non-construction establishments with 20 or more employees, the SST Program directs agency enforcement resources to those with the highest rates of injuries and illnesses.

Washington — The two-year charter for NIOSH’s Mine Safety and Health Research Advisory Committee has been renewed through Nov. 30, 2022, according to a notice published in the Dec. 11 Federal Register.

Washington — To help keep safe the workers who play a role in getting “gifts from the warehouse to your home” for the holidays, OSHA has published a series for seasonal workplace safety tips and a video – including COVID-19-related guidance.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a final rule that revises the pesticide application exclusion zone requirement in the agency’s standard on agricultural worker protection.

Washington — OSHA is accepting nominations for its Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health.

Quincy, MA — A new fact sheet from the National Fire Protection Association promotes the safe use of portable outdoor heaters – a popular appliance among restaurants, schools and other businesses with outdoor settings during the COVID-19 pandemic and as temperatures drop.

Washington — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is asking for input on an interim final rule that clarifies the definitions of the terms “any agricultural commodity” and “livestock” in the agency’s hours-of-service regulations for commercial truck drivers.