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OSHA Targets High-Hazard Worksites for Inspections This Year

OSHA has issued its annual site-specific targeting plan for inspections. High-risk workplaces will be top priority. This year, as in years past, OSHA is directing enforcement resources to workplaces where the highest rates of injuries and illnesses occur.  The site-specific targeting (SST) program is one of OSHA’s main programmed inspection plans for high-hazard, non-construction workplaces […]

Flammable Liquid Hazards

Use the following information to tailor a safety training session to your own workplace. Bring in samples of different types of flammable liquids in their containers to the meeting. Review the appropriate material safety data sheets (MSDSs) and labels. Rehearse emergency procedures to use during a spill or explosion. Safety talk Flammable liquids are found […]

Stay Off OSHA’s Radar with Back Safety Training

Heed OSHA’s warning that it will concentrate enforcement efforts on industries with high rates of feasibly preventable back injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Yesterday we looked at the prevalence of back injuries in the workplace, and at some quick and simple stretches and exercises that, with regular use, can significantly cut down on the […]

Wood Products Rule Compliance Dates Extended

In a final rule (September 25, 2017, FR), the EPA has extended the compliance dates for four requirements under the Agency’s final Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products (December 12, 2016, FR).

EHSDA Song of the Week: Sugar and Stress

Workplace stress can lead to bigger problems such as accidents, injuries, and health issues. The Song of the Week takes an upbeat look at stress courtesy of The English Beat (or The Beat, as they’re known in the U.K.) with “Sugar and Stress.” The Beat formed in Birmingham, England, in 1978 and combined pop, ska, […]

Exit Routes: Maintenance, Safeguarding, and Operational Requirements

Yesterday, we talked about design requirements for emergency exit routes. Today, we review OSHA’s emergency exit maintenance, safeguarding, and operational requirements. OSHA standards require emergency exit routes to be maintained in safe and fully operational condition at all times. This means you must: Keep exit routes free of explosive or highly flammable furnishings and other […]

The Importance of Oral Health

More and more safety trainers are realizing the importance of mixing in some wellness training to keep their workers healthy and on the job. Since this month is Children’s Dental Health Month, it’s a good time to give a quick overview of how dental care affects overall wellness. Proper dental hygiene is good for more […]

Don’t Overlook Hazmat Employee Training Requirements

Training for hazmat employees is required by the hazardous materials regulations (HMR), and it’s your responsibility to see that they get it. The requirement at 49 CFR 172.702(a) is clear—hazmat employers are responsible for ensuring that each hazmat employee receives training in compliance with the requirements listed at 49 CFR 172.704. The issue of responsibility […]

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DOI Proposed Budget Includes Many Cuts But Not for O&G

While receiving less attention in the news than the administration’s proposed 31 percent cut to EPA’s 2018 budget, the proposed cut of $1.8 billion (13 percent) for the Department of Interior (DOI) significantly restructures DOI’s top priorities. In testimony before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke made it clear that the […]