Hazards

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has published various online resources intended to aid employer compliance with an emergency temporary standard aimed at protecting workers statewide from exposure to COVID-19.

Toronto — Feelings of anxiety and depression were highest among workers whose perceived personal protective equipment and infection control needs were not met during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the results of a recent study out of Canada.

Itasca, IL — Employers will have to continue COVID-19-related safety measures well into the new year – likely through the summer, according to Justin Rodriguez, a partner with the Boston Consulting Group.

Washington — Five Senate Democrats are imploring the Mine Safety and Health Administration to lower its exposure limit for crystalline silica – a carcinogen found in sand, stone and artificial stone.

Melbourne, Australia — Musculoskeletal disorders cost people around the world nearly 140 million years lost to ill-health, disability or early death, results a recent study out of Australia and Iran indicate.

Austin, TX — Allowing construction and other high-contact work to continue without restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have increased transmission of the disease in both the industry and the surrounding community, according to a study led by researchers from the University of Texas.

Washington — Although some state drug laws recently have been revised to legalize marijuana, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is reminding officials that the federal government’s Drug-Free Workplace Program has not changed.

Lansing, MI — Michigan OSHA is increasing its presence on construction sites and in manufacturing facilities as part of two state emphasis programs launched Nov. 16 in an effort to help ensure employers in these industries protect their workers from exposure to COVID-19.

Washington — A pair of new guidance documents from OSHA outline measures employers should take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of heat-related illness among workers wearing cloth facial coverings in hot and humid conditions or performing strenuous tasks.

Sacramento, CA – California’s emergency temporary standard requiring employers to protect workers from COVID-19-related hazards is now in effect after being approved Nov. 30 by the state’s Office of Administrative Law.