Contractors

Sacramento, CA — Changes to California’s regulations on construction safety orders for confined spaces 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.”

Oak Ridge, TN — Contract workers are testing new remote equipment designed to help them avoid “some of the most challenging, contaminated environments” involving radioactive material during deactivation and demolition projects at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the U.S. Department of Energy says.

Silver Spring, MD — As elevated suicide rates continue to impact the construction industry, “showing up authentically and compassionately” is vital for supervisors or employees who think a co-worker is at immediate risk, one expert says.