Workplace Exposures

Washington — A pair of new guidance documents from OSHA outline measures employers should take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of heat-related illness among workers wearing cloth facial coverings in hot and humid conditions or performing strenuous tasks.

Sacramento, CA – California’s emergency temporary standard requiring employers to protect workers from COVID-19-related hazards is now in effect after being approved Nov. 30 by the state’s Office of Administrative Law.

Lansing, MI — In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, two Michigan agencies have developed a coronavirus exposure notification app.

A spike in lost-time injuries and illnesses resulting from “environmental cold” suggests a lack of understanding of cold stress and how to avoid related injuries.

Washington — The COVID-19 pandemic has “exacerbated” the challenges for OSHA and the Mine Safety and Health Administration to use their resources to protect the safety and health of workers, according to the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

Washington — The Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is advising the Mine Safety and Health Administration to lower its legal exposure limit for silica released Nov. 16.

Tumwater, WA — Washington state has taken the first step in the rulemaking process to address worker exposure to wildfire smoke.

Boston — Grocery store workers who interact with customers may be five times more likely to contract COVID-19 than their colleagues who don’t have direct contact with customers, results of a recent study led by researchers from Harvard University show.

Washington — OSHA has issued guidance intended to help employers in the long-term care industry protect the respiratory health of workers in nursing homes, assisted living and other LTC facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aurora, CO — Protecting the health and safety of workers during the COVID-19 pandemic will be a high priority for President-elect Joe Biden as he prepares to take office in January, according to former OSHA chief David Michaels.