News

Does OSHA-approved construction training lead to a safer worksites? Maybe.

The House passes legislation that could drastically limit the ability of OSHA and other agencies to pursue regulations.

OSHA issues guides to help protect workers against mercury found in compact fluorescent light bulbs.

Notable proposed fines

$352,700 to a metal forger at its Chicago facility for fall protection violations and alleged crane hazards

$123,300 to a metal fabricator in Wisconsin for alleged electrical and amputation hazards

$70,000 to an Illinois concrete manufacturer for violations related to an incident in which a worker was injured when engulfed in sand

$65,800 to an Atlanta utility contractor following a planned inspection that found alleged trenching hazards

$52,360 to a Georgia manufacturer for several allegations, including no lockout/tagout program, lack of guarding devices, failing to ensure use of personal protection equipment, and failing to ensure all worker training was completed

Review counter

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.

Below is a count of how many days recent OSHA proposals have been under review, as of today:

• 539 days – Silica (proposed rule)
• 258 days – Modernizing OSHA’s reporting system for injuries and illnesses (proposed rule)
• 40 days – Electric power transmission and distribution; electrical protective equipment (final rule)

Happening this week

Aug. 7-8 – Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health hosts its Regional Safety Summit

The opinions expressed in "Washington Wire" do not necessarily reflect those of the National Safety Council or affiliated local Chapters.