News
The proposed budget for OSHA for fiscal year 2014 would “bolster workplace safety,” acting Secretary of Labor Seth Harris told the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee.
OSHA administrator David Michaels outlined how a worksite’s Voluntary Protection Programs’ status would change in the event of a death or catastrophe.
NACOSH discusses how to ensure temporary workers stay safe on the job.
Powered industrial trucks are the focus of an OSHA Local Emphasis Program in Idaho.
Notable proposed fines
$465,410 to three New York contractors for a number of alleged hazards, most stemming from electrocution risks
$130,500 to two New Jersey companies for trenching violations at an excavation site
$126,700 to a Wisconsin cheese manufacturer for violations in connection with the amputation of a worker’s fingers
$117,920 to a hardware manufacturer for failing to correct previously cited violations, including respirator and fire safety hazards
$77,000 to a Missouri tool and die facility in connection with a worker’s electrocution
Review Counter
Below is a count of how many days recent OSHA proposals have been under review, as of June 17:
| # of Days | OSHA Proposal |
| 854 | Silica (proposed rule) |
| 573 | Modernizing OSHA’s reporting system for injuries and illnesses (proposed rule) |
| 355 | Electric power transmission and distribution; electrical protective equipment (final rule) |
The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs – part of the White House’s Office of Management and Budget – reviews proposed regulations. The process is required for most rules before they can move forward, and typically takes 90 days.
The opinions expressed in "Washington Wire" do not necessarily reflect those of the National Safety Council or affiliated local Chapters.