Regulations/Legislation

As commercial use of drones increases, some employers are using the devices to keep workers out of hazardous areas such as confined spaces. But as one expert cautions, “If you’re not trained or don’t have experience, you’re exposing yourself to a lot of common causes of the accidents that we’re familiar with.”

Oakland, CA – The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board for California’s Department of Industrial Relations has approved a regulation aimed at “anticipating, preventing and responding to hazards” at the state’s oil refineries.

Washington – Print and digital advertisements from the National Association of Manufacturers are commending President Donald Trump for maintaining a campaign promise – in his first 100 days – to reduce federal regulations in the interest of business.

Washington – Five members of Congress on May 15 introduced a bill that would reinstate OSHA’s so-called “Volks” rule, a previously overturned law that addressed employers’ “ongoing obligation” to make and maintain accurate records of work-related injuries and illnesses.

Washington – The Coalition for Sensible Safeguards, a group of more than 150 unions and nonprofit organizations, recently voiced its opposition to the bipartisan Regulatory Accountability Act of 2017 and asked the Senate to reject the proposed legislation, which would alter the federal rulemaking process.

Sacramento, CA – California lawmakers are moving forward with legislation that would require health care facilities to use scavenging systems to reduce “surgical plume" – toxic airborne contaminants that threaten surgical staff and patients.

Washington – Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) on March 13 reintroduced the Healthy Families Act, which would allow workers to accrue up to seven sick days annually, to be used when they or a family member are ill.

Washington – A proposal to clarify regulations for employee wellness programs is stirring controversy between Republicans and Democrats in Congress.

Washington – Several members of the House have joined forces to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that would make permanent OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs.

Washington – Lawmakers have moved one step closer to overturning a final rule from OSHA that addresses employers’ “ongoing obligation” to make and maintain accurate records of work-related injury and illness data.