Federal Agencies

Should the federal government regulate obstructive sleep apnea among transportation workers such as truck drivers and train operators? Stakeholders have used a recent public comment period to express support for, and opposition to, the proposal.

Washington – In a move to address so-called “midnight rules,” Republicans on the House Education and the Workforce Committee have sent a letter to Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez requesting a list of regulations and other guidance the Department of Labor intends to release by the end of President Barack Obama’s second and final term.

Washington – A new final rule from OSHA is aimed at improving protections for seamen who inform the government about violations of maritime safety laws or regulations.

Washington – OSHA has awarded a total of $10.5 million to 77 organizations for safety and health training programs.

Washington – NIOSH recently recognized six facilities as Centers of Excellence, designed to help advance the overall safety, health, and well-being of workers.

Washington – A recently released report from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Medical Review Board offers recommendations for helping commercial motor vehicle drivers who have controlled diabetes remain safe on the road.

Washington – OSHA is seeking public comment on potential revisions to standards related to fall protection for shipyard workers.

Washington – The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and the Federal Railroad Administration are accepting comment until Sept. 27 on a proposed rule that would expand the parameters for railroads to develop oil spill response plans for incidents involving high-hazard flammable trains.

Washington – Dean McKenzie has been appointed director of OSHA’s Directorate of Construction.

Washington – OSHA has published an amendment to correct typographical errors in the formulas in its final rule aimed at protecting workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica.