Hazards

Washington — OSHA has published a set of tips for drivers and passengers in taxis, rideshare vehicles, limousines and other car service vehicles to help protect against exposure to COVID-19.

Itasca, IL — In response to news that at least 30 states are reporting increases in fatal opioid overdoses amid the COVID-19 pandemic – coupled with an ongoing concern about mental illness and substance use disorders – the National Safety Council is calling on employers to address worker stress, as well as emotional and mental health, now and as traditional work functions resume.

Tumwater, WA — Ethylene oxide should not be used to sterilize filtering facepiece respirators for reuse because “this extremely hazardous toxic chemical poses a severe risk to human health,” the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries warns in a new alert.

Washington — To prevent illnesses and injuries related to environmental heat exposure, employers need to “think about preventing injuries and providing workers with the right equipment for the job,” a May 19 webinar hosted by OSHA advises.

Washington — To help protect agriculture workers against exposure to COVID-19, recently released interim guidance from OSHA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists measures employers should take during the pandemic.

Washington — OSHA has denied an AFL-CIO petition that asks the agency to issue an emergency temporary standard on infectious diseases amid the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, claiming the labor federation “lacks compelling evidence.”

Washington — Are you concerned you could be exposed to COVID-19 at work and infect members of your household? You’re not alone, results of a recent Washington Post survey show.

Washington — NIOSH has launched a virtual research center intended help combat workplace fatigue by targeting industry-specific activities.

Washington — The Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is reviewing OSHA’s enforcement activities and guidance amid the COVID-19 pandemic, DOL Inspector General Scott Dahl indicated during a House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee virtual briefing June 1.

Washington — Aimed at reducing COVID-19 exposure among construction workers, OSHA has created a new website with guidance for employers.