Hazards

Murray, UT — A new online tool from the NCCCO Foundation and the National Safety Council is intended to help improve safety on jobsites where cranes and other load-handling equipment are used.

Melbourne, Australia — Cases of silicosis among workers in Australia’s stone countertop industry spiked over a recent eight-year period, according to researchers from Monash University.

Boca Raton, FL — People with chronic low back pain may experience significant improvements in pain-related issues, sleep and more by practicing qigong, Florida Atlantic University researchers say after they studied the effects on a group of military veterans.

Washington — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued updated interim guidance on protecting workers from exposure to bird flu to include employees at zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, fur farms, aquariums and wildlife rehabilitation facilities.

Menomenee Falls, WI — Although handwashing has become more common during cold and flu season, nearly 4 out of 5 people who were part of a recent survey say they’ve seen others leaving public restrooms without washing.

Gainesville, FL — Heatstroke can lead to long-term organ damage and obesity, results of a recent study suggest.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking comment on a proposed rule requiring respiratory protection and cleaning plans to help reduce worker exposure to the chemical substance Pigment Violet 29.

Washington — Some drugs used to treat cancer and other conditions can be hazardous to workers who are exposed to them. NIOSH recently updated its tool intended to help health care workers and employers identify which routinely handled drugs are considered hazardous.

Washington — The Department of Health and Human Services is including fentanyl in its drug testing panels for federal workplace programs.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency is taking several actions, including a partial ban, to protect workers against exposure to ethylene oxide, under a new interim registration review decision.