Federal Agencies

Washington – As the next step toward a possible rule on safety for communication tower workers, OSHA has released a Request for Information asking stakeholders how tower workers can be better protected.

Washington – A final rule intended to improve the safety of crude oil transport by rail is being reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget and should be finalized “in the coming weeks,” Federal Railroad Administration Acting Administrator Sarah Feinberg said April 14 during a hearing of the House Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee.

Washington – OSHA is now accepting applications for its Susan Harwood Training Grant Program.

Arlington, VA – Despite an improved overall injury rate in the mining industry, the number of worker deaths increased in 2014, particularly at metal and non-metal mines, according to preliminary data released by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Washington – The National Transportation Safety Board has issued four urgent recommendations in the wake of several fiery derailments involving rail cars carrying crude oil and other flammable liquids.

Washington – April is National Workplace Violence Prevention Month, and OSHA hopes to raise awareness by releasing updated guidance for health care and social service workers.

Washington – Two of OSHA’s resources on whistleblower protections are now available in Spanish.

Atlanta, GA – All employers should make their workplaces tobacco-free and offer tobacco-cessation programs, NIOSH states in a bulletin released April 2.

Washington – The Chemical Safety Board has produced a seven-minute video to help employers prevent potentially deadly anhydrous ammonia incidents.

Washington – A group of senators is calling on the Department of Labor to take additional steps to implement an Executive Order that would require federal agencies to consider an employer’s safety record before awarding contracts.