Federal Agencies

Washington – The Chemical Safety Board needs to address several management challenges to strengthen its influence and protect workers and the public, according to a report from the Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General.

Washington – After months of delays, Chemical Safety Board members approved the agency’s final investigation report on a 2009 Caribbean Petroleum refinery explosion that injured three people and damaged about 300 homes near San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Washington – Three new bills that would add requirements to the regulatory process recently advanced through a GOP-led Senate committee.

Washington – Incorrect telephone numbers in mine emergency response plans could hinder rescue operations, according to an alert memorandum issued Oct. 9 by the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

Washington – A draft guidance document from OSHA that would require inspectors to obtain information to determine whether franchisors and franchisees are joint employers – and therefore liable for safety violations – has triggered concerns among some House Republicans.

Washington – An OSHA final rule that would require electronic recordkeeping and reporting is under review by the White House’s Office of Management and Budget.

Washington – OSHA administrator David Michaels appeared before a House subcommittee on Oct. 7 to push for increased OSHA funding and updated laws, and found himself fending off accusations that the agency altered rules without public input.

Washington – Full enforcement of OSHA’s new Confined Spaces in Construction Standard is being delayed again.

Washington – OSHA’s rulemaking process, interpretive guidance and policy memos may be evaluated this year by the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

Washington – A bipartisan group of lawmakers is proposing to extend the Dec. 31 deadline for railroads to implement Positive Train Control – an integrated system for controlling train movements, including emergency braking.