Contractors

Tumwater, WA — Washington state is seeking to add a requirement for written work plans, along with other provisions, to its excavation, trenching and shoring regulations.

Sacramento, CA — Changes to California’s regulations on construction safety orders for confined spaces went into effect Jan. 1.

New York — Construction superintendents in New York City can hold only one primary job, under new limitations that went into effect Jan. 1.

Washington — Offshore oil and gas rig operators should ensure contractors review safety measures with qualified operations staff before working with pressurized systems or valves, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement advises.

Silver Spring, MD — Construction workers “face a diverse array of hazards: toxic chemicals, dangerous working conditions and risky body positions, among others,” according to a new report from CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training.

Tumwater, WA — The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has adopted new permitting requirements for tower cranes, set to go into effect Jan. 1.

Portland, OR — In response to seven worker deaths caused by heat-related illnesses in the state over a recent 11-year period, the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences has issued a hazard alert.

Arlington, VA — Alarmed by numerous serious incidents involving contract truck drivers in the past five years, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert.

Washington — Alarmed by a “recurring trend” of equipment misuse contributing to fire and explosion hazards during offshore oil and gas operations, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has issued a safety alert.

Manoa, HI — Researchers from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and Oregon State University will partner to create best safety practices “based on the nature and stresses of small construction businesses.”