Federal Agencies

Washington — NIOSH has unveiled a beta version of an online software tool designed to provide post-shift assessments of mine worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

Washington — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service will allow poultry-processing plants to increase line speeds if they meet certain criteria, even as critics claim the move will expose workers to injuries and was made without public input.

Washington — The Chemical Safety Board is emphasizing the importance of preparing for the “unique safety challenges” posed by cold weather at refineries, chemical plants and other facilities that handle hazardous materials in a new Safety Digest and corresponding video.

Kansas City, MO — OSHA has launched a Regional Emphasis Program addressing hazards stemming from exposure to fertilizer-grade ammonium nitrate and agricultural anhydrous ammonia.

Washington — In response to a recent increase in trench-related worker deaths, OSHA has updated its National Emphasis Program on trenching and excavation safety, effective Oct. 1.

Washington — Three days after the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration determined that hazardous materials transporters do not have to comply with California’s rest and meal break requirements, the American Trucking Associations filed a petition asking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to pre-empt the requirements for all commercial motor vehicle drivers.

Washington — The Department of Labor is accepting comment until Nov. 26 on a proposed rule that would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to operate powered patient lifts in hospitals, nursing homes or other long-term care facilities.

Washington — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will conduct multiple public listening sessions regarding an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on its hours-of-service regulations for commercial truck drivers.

Washington — OSHA has released an updated QuickCard and a public service announcement video intended to raise awareness of trenching safety, after a recent increase in trench-related worker deaths.

Washington — OSHA is accepting nominations for its Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health, the agency announced in a notice published in the Sept. 17 Federal Register.