Hazards

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public comment on separate draft risk assessments for the toxic herbicide paraquat and its impact on human and ecological health, according to a notice published in the Oct. 16 Federal Register.

Itasca, IL — The National Safety Council is calling on employers to restrict cannabis use among workers in safety-sensitive positions – regardless of whether cannabis consumption is allowed by their state, in a new policy position released Oct. 21.

New York — In response to growing safety concerns among female and gender-nonconforming journalists, the Committee to Protect Journalists has published a collection of resources to help combat work-related physical threats, online harassment and other dangers.

London — Professional drivers in congested cities should take measures to lower their exposure to air pollution, a team of British researchers is warning after its recent study showed that these workers, particularly taxi drivers, are exposed to elevated levels of black carbon – an indicator of diesel engine fumes.

Arlington, VA — Prompted by a fire on a diesel-powered water car in May, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert addressing fire hazards associated with diesel equipment in underground mines.

Muncie, IN — More than 1 out of 3 U.S. working adults aren’t getting enough sleep, and the prevalence of sleep deprivation has increased significantly since 2010, according to researchers from Ball State University.

Washington — As expected, OSHA is proposing changes to its beryllium standards for the construction and shipyard industries.

Honolulu — Men who are exposed to high levels of pesticides at work face a 45% higher risk of heart disease and stroke, results of a recent study from the University of Hawaii show.

Washington — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning of “an emerging public health threat” after researchers identified an increase in cases of silicosis – an incurable lung disease – among workers who handle engineered stone used to make household countertops.

Washington — Registration is open for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, a national online database intended to provide – in real time – the names of commercial motor vehicle drivers who have failed drug and alcohol tests.