BLS: Injuries, Illnesses Rose in 2022

BLS: Injuries, Illnesses Rose in 2022

In 2022, there was a 7.5% increase in nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses among private sector employers, with a total of 2.8 million cases, driven by a 4.5% rise in injuries and a significant 26.1% increase in illnesses, particularly respiratory ailments; furthermore, transportation and material-moving occupations experienced the highest number of cases among major occupation groups. The overexertion and bodily reaction category were the leading cause of injuries, which, according to Liberty Mutual's Workplace Safety Index, collectively cost employers $12.84 billion a year. To read the article in it's entirety, please click here.
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Injury and illness rates in warehouses are too high, OIG tells OSHA.

Injury and illness rates in warehouses are too high, OIG tells OSHA.

A Nicaraguan immigrant, Marcos, embarked on a perilous post-hurricane cleanup job in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where he encountered toxic mold and contaminants that left him with health issues. This investigation reveals that the disaster-restoration industry, largely reliant on low-wage immigrant labor, exposes workers to dangerous toxins like mold, asbestos, and lead, with many suffering long-term health problems as a result. Despite the risks, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has failed to establish proper safeguards for post-disaster work and often prioritizes swift recovery over worker health, leaving laborers vulnerable to hazardous conditions. To read the article in…
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‘Hot, hard’ work: EPA crews begin months-long effort to remove toxic materials from Lahaina

‘Hot, hard’ work: EPA crews begin months-long effort to remove toxic materials from Lahaina

Hazardous waste from the fire-damaged area in Lahaina, Hawaii is being transported to the Ukumehame Firing Range, where it will be temporarily stored before being shipped to specialized sites on the U.S. mainland for disposal. The toxic materials being removed include items like batteries, solvents, pesticides, and more, with the process expected to take several months to ensure the safety of future crews and residents, involving around 80 EPA workers and cultural monitors to safeguard historical and cultural significance. To read the article in its entirety, click here.
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Chemical Safety Board Applauds EPA Hydrogen Fluoride Initiative

Chemical Safety Board Applauds EPA Hydrogen Fluoride Initiative

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) has praised the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) updated National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives (NECIs) for their continued focus on reducing accidental releases at industrial and chemical facilities. For the first time, the EPA's initiatives include a strong emphasis on inspecting and addressing noncompliance at facilities using highly toxic hydrogen fluoride (HF), following recent incidents that put communities at risk. To read the article in its entirety, click here.
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Charles River Analytics awarded SBIR grant to create VR hazardous waste training modules for NIEHS

Charles River Analytics awarded SBIR grant to create VR hazardous waste training modules for NIEHS

Charles River Analytics announced it was awarded a SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) grant for NIEHS (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences) to create virtual reality (VR) modules that enhance training for hazardous waste operations & emergency response (HAZWOPER). This award is geared towards creating training modules for firefighters, emergency responders, and environmental and industrial workers, who may all encounter hazardous materials. These hazardous materials can pose health and safety risks such as chemical burns, illnesses, fires, and explosions. To read the article in it's entirety, please click here.
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Construction workers say their anxiety and depression has gotten worse amid pandemic: CPWR

Construction workers say their anxiety and depression has gotten worse amid pandemic: CPWR

Safety+Health published a new article citing construction workers are at greater risk for anxiety and depression.  Their symptoms have worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among women and workers living in poverty, according to a new report from CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training. The Center for Disease and Control and Prevention study concluded that male construction workers have one of the highest suicide rates among all industries and are at four times greater risk than the general public. To read this alarming article in it's entirety, please click on the following link.
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Back to Basics: Cold Stress

Back to Basics: Cold Stress

As winter continues and temperatures are often in a downward trend, it is important to revisit safety measures for personnel.  According to OSHA, winter weather can present hazards.  For example, slippery roads and surfaces, strong winds and environmental cold that can often lead to illnesses, injuries or fatalities.  All of these can happen if employees are exposed to cold stress. To learn more about types of Cold Stress, please click here.  
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Over 100 lawmakers urge OSHA to issue permanent standard on COVID-19 for health care workers

Over 100 lawmakers urge OSHA to issue permanent standard on COVID-19 for health care workers

In a letter dated Jan. 11th addressed to President Joe Biden, lawmakers cite the recent surge in COVID-19 cases including the omicron variant for the need to enhance protections for healthcare workers.  It also states they are exhausted and scared and beyond their breaking points. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) has joined 114 other members of Congress in calling on OSHA to issue a permanent standard on COVID-19 focused on health care workers. To read the article in its entirety, please click here.
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