State News

Salem, OR — In response to “the extraordinary hazards that have been exacerbated by climate change,” Oregon OSHA has adopted a pair of emergency temporary rules that increase worker protections against wildfire smoke and high heat in employer-provided housing.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has launched a Spanish-language version of its free online video training course on fall protection for the construction industry.

Salem, OR — Extreme heat in the Pacific Northwest this summer has spurred Oregon OSHA to launch a Local Emphasis Program aimed at preventing heat-related illness.

St. Paul, MN — An amendment to Minnesota law recently signed by Gov. Tim Walz (D) will strengthen workplace protections and offer flexibility for new and expectant mothers, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry has announced.

Tumwater, WA — The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has issued an emergency rule that increases protections for workers exposed to unhealthy air caused by wildfire smoke.

Columbia, SC — South Carolina OSHA has announced its plan to adopt a standard on infectious diseases in the workplace, including COVID-19.

Oakland, CA — The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health – also known as Cal/OSHA – is reminding employers to protect workers from unhealthy air resulting from wildfire smoke.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has adopted an emergency rule that strengthens employer requirements for protecting workers from the effects of high and extreme heat, including expanded access to shade and cool water, after a farm worker in St. Paul died on the job during a recent record-breaking heat wave.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has removed the face covering and physical distancing requirements from its COVID-19 workplace protection rules for most establishments, with the exception of health care settings, public transit and airports.

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA has announced plans to repeal the basic face covering and physical distancing requirements in its COVID-19 workplace protection rules when 70% of the state’s residents are at least partially vaccinated against the virus.