State News

Washington — Citing Arizona’s “pattern of failures to adopt and enforce standards and enforcement policies at least as effective” as those used by OSHA, the agency is proposing to “reconsider and revoke” the final approval of the state’s State Plan for oversight of worker safety and health.

Columbus, OH — The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has announced $30 million in grants for research and development of personal protective equipment innovations.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA is seeking public comment on proposed rules that would increase worker protections against extreme heat and wildfire smoke, calling them “the strongest such protections in the nation.”

Sacramento, CA — A new initiative spearheaded by a California Department of Industrial Relations task force is aimed at ensuring employers on publicly funded construction sites are following labor laws and providing workers’ compensation insurance.

Little Rock, AR — The Arkansas Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Highway Police and other state organizations, has launched a campaign aimed at reducing incidents and fatalities in work zones.

Oakland, CA — The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is requesting nominations for members to serve on its recently established advisory committee focused on the safety and health of household domestic service workers.

Boise, ID — As a result of “continuing incidences of fatalities and injuries” at grain handling facilities within the jurisdiction of its Boise area office, OSHA on Dec. 31 renewed a Local Emphasis Program focused on inspections at these facilities.

Albany, NY — The New York State Department of Labor has scheduled a virtual public hearing on a proposed rule that would establish rules and regulations for workplace safety committees.

New York — Ventilation and air filtration recommendations are part of a new workplace policy guide on reducing COVID-19 transmission, published by the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health, a worker advocacy group.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has launched a Spanish-language online training course on bloodborne pathogens for health care, emergency response, hospitality and other industries.