July 28, 2023
Heat protections requested, Safe + Sound Week scheduled and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
The Biden Administration is initiating several actions to protect employees from extreme heat. One action will require OSHA to issue its first hazard alert for heat to reaffirm employer expectations. The agency will also be increasing enforcement of heat-safety violations and fast-tracking its permanent federal standard.
Safe + Sound Week begins August 7
This year’s Safe + Sound Week is scheduled for August 7-13. The annual event focuses on recognizing and building strong workplace health and safety programs. This year includes a focus on mental health and wellness, and employers are encouraged to participate, plan an event and download a certificate to recognize their participation.
Studies, resources, trends, news
In recognition of Ultraviolent (UV) Safety Month, Occupational Health & Safety magazine is providing five tips employers should know. A recent article discusses the importance of understanding the dangers of UV rays, knowing which jobs involve sun exposure, providing sun protection to employees, scheduling work appropriately and training employees.
Tips for reducing cancer risk for firefighters
According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, cancer caused 66% of line-of-duty deaths from 2002 to 2019. The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) provides six tips to help firefighters protect themselves from hazardous smoke, chemicals and toxins. Tips include using personal protective equipment during all phases of firefighting, controlling contamination beyond the fireground and more.
How wearables, robotics and exoskeletons will affect the safety industry
An EHS Daily Advisor Back to Basics article discusses how to introduce wearable sensors, steel-collar robots and industrial exoskeletons into the workplace. In addition to explaining the potential benefits, the article also highlights important risks and overall impacts to consider.