Hazards

Washington – Failure to apply inherently safer design principles, conduct damage mechanism hazard reviews and implement safeguards led to the hydrocarbon release and fire at a Chevron refinery in August 2012, concludes a draft report from the Chemical Safety Board.

Washington – Demolition and underground construction employers must follow the same requirements for crane and derrick use as those in other construction sectors, OSHA said in a final rule issued April 23.

New York – The risk of developing lung cancer increases when workers smoke, are exposed to asbestos and have asbestosis, according to a new study from the American Thoracic Society.

Rosemont, IL – Medical treatment that restores physical function, such as knee and hip surgery, may help ease the monetary burdens of musculoskeletal disorders on American society, according to a study the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Fresno, CA – With warm weather approaching, California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health on April 4 launched its 2013 Heat Illness Prevention Program.

Washington – The Chemical Safety Board is scheduled to host a public meeting on April 19 in Richmond, CA, to present interim findings and safety recommendations from the investigation of the hydrocarbon release and fire at a Chevron refinery.

Obese and severely obese workers tend to have more frequent and costlier injuries than normal-weight workers, but part of the responsibility rests on U.S. workplaces. S+H explores simple, inexpensive workplace changes companies can make to encourage workers to maintain a healthier weight.

Strong interest in two upcoming OSHA stakeholder meetings on crane operator certification requirements has prompted the agency to add a third.

Fairfax, VA – Despite Colorado and Washington state legalizing small quantities of marijuana for recreational use, the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators has announced that its substance abuse policy still prohibits workers from using the drug.

Sacramento, CA – Reacting to a Chevron refinery fire last year that resulted in thousands of people seeking medical attention after breathing toxic emissions, a California lawmaker has introduced legislation to require abatement of unsafe conditions during any appeals process.