Occupational Illnesses

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency wants to revise its proposed risk management rule for formaldehyde to reverse “unreasonable risk” determinations for some workers who might inhale its vapors.

Arlington, VA — Miners exposed to lead dust or fumes at work need to be wearing an air-purifying respirator with high-efficiency filters, the Mine Safety and Health Administration says in a recent health alert.

Washington — Two House Democrats are calling on the Department of Labor to confirm whether it’s enforcing a rule that requires self-insured coal mine operators to “post adequate security for their benefit liabilities.”

Waterloo, Ontario — A new series of “posters and practical resources” from experts at Waterloo University is aimed at helping employers address vibration-related hazards.

Bilbao, Spain — Nearly 1 out of 3 European workers are concerned that extreme heat or other issues related to climate change will impact their safety and health, according to the results of a recent survey.

Washington — The Mine Safety and Health Administration will “engage in limited rulemaking to reconsider” portions of a final rule on miner exposure to respirable crystalline silica that’s being challenged in ongoing litigation.

Los Angeles — Exposure to a common chemical used in dry cleaning and certain consumer products may increase the risk for severe liver issues, researchers are cautioning.

College Station, TX — The vast majority of astronauts on the International Space Station battle sinus problems and congestion, which can compromise sleep quality and decision-making, a recent study shows.

National Harbor, MD — A new policy adopted by the American Medical Association is aimed at bolstering protections for health care workers who are exposed to ionizing radiation.

Silver Spring, MD — “What if we actually had a ‘magic pill’ that could prevent dementia? We do,” a University of Maryland researcher claimed during a Nov. 13 webinar hosted by CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training.