Injury prevention

RSS

OSHA data shows 23 workers were killed in trench collapses in 2016 – surpassing the combined total from 2014 and 2015. “Employers need to realize that any excavation has the potential for exposure to serious injury and fatality,” one expert says.

Once relegated to science fiction and other works of popular culture, exoskeletons are showing promise in providing ergonomic support and preventing injuries among people who work physically demanding jobs.

Washington — NIOSH has published its National Occupational Research Agenda for Wholesale and Retail Trade, as well as its NORA for Traumatic Injury Prevention – both intended to spotlight the research, information and actions most needed to prevent occupational injuries and illnesses.

Olympia, WA — The Washington state Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention Program has released the second in a series of reports on work-related immediate inpatient hospitalizations in the state.

Washington — Spurred by destructive hurricanes and wildfires in parts of the country in recent months, OSHA is calling attention to its Emergency Preparedness and Response webpage, reminding employers to “plan ahead,” “know the hazards” and “keep safe.”

Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry has issued a hazard alert warning of the potential dangers of unsafe materials handling and storage in the beverage distribution and retail industry.

Silver Spring, MD — Lifting and moving heavy materials are among the leading causes of disabling injuries in the construction industry, and these injuries can cost employers billions of dollars, according to the Center for Construction and Research Training – also known as CPWR.

Montreal — Canadian scientific research organization IRSST has released a new video intended to ensure the optimal use of backup alarms “under realistic working conditions.”

Arlington, VA — The Mine Safety and Health Administration has scheduled six public stakeholder meetings and a webinar on a Request for Information on technologies that may help reduce incidents involving mobile equipment at surface mines, as well as belt conveyors at surface and underground mines.

Washington — OSHA’s threshold for moderate occupational heat risks starts at a heat index of 91° F, but that “might not be sufficiently protective,” according to an analysis by the agency.