Hazards

Worcester, MA — Workers in marijuana processing facilities must be informed about the hazards of exposure to ground cannabis dust, the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission reminds employers in a recently published safety bulletin.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency will begin the risk management process to “address the unreasonable risk presented by legacy uses and associated disposal of asbestos,” which includes publishing a proposed rule to “protect people from the identified risks.”

Washington — The Chemical Safety Board is emphasizing the importance of thorough risk assessments and emergency preparedness as it continues to investigate a fatal release of hydrogen sulfide.

Washington — OSHA has extended until Jan. 14 the comment period on a proposed rule aimed at protecting indoor and outdoor workers from heat-related illnesses.

Los Angeles — A recent study out of the University of California, Los Angeles could accelerate the identification of the riskiest cancer-causing chemicals for firefighters and other people exposed to fires.

Toronto — Injured workers, particularly those with physically demanding jobs, are more likely to visit an ER for an opioid-related incident, results of a pair of studies out of Canada suggest.

Saint Paul, MN — Minnesota OSHA will establish a working group to assist the state’s Department of Labor and Industry in revising regulations on lead exposure for both general industry and construction.

What can be done to prevent excessive lead exposure to keep utility workers safe?

Washington — Clouds of anhydrous ammonia – which is toxic when inhaled – may not be visible “if the cloud does not condense sufficient atmospheric moisture,” the Chemical Safety Board warns.

Fort Collins, CO — A team of researchers from Colorado State University is recruiting 100 active male wildland firefighters for a two-year study of the reproductive health effects of wildfire smoke.