August 4, 2023

Heat illness alert, heat standard input and more

Male Safety Inspector in a yellow vest

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA issues a hazard alert about extreme heat

OSHA issued a heat hazard alert, reminding employers of their obligation to protect employees from heat illnesses. The alert describes employer responsibilities, employee rights and recommendations for reducing exposure. The document also explains the agency’s plans for enhanced enforcement activities.

OSHA asks small businesses for input on upcoming heat standard

OSHA is inviting representatives from small businesses, local governments and nonprofit organizations to give input on a potential heat standard. The agency is expected to organize a review panel with other organizations in the coming months where small entity representatives will be able to suggest recommendations for the standard.

Studies, resources, trends, news

OSHA-NIOSH heat safety tool application

The OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool is a mobile app that provides location-specific, real-time heat index and hourly forecasts. The app is useful for planning outdoor work and provides tips for preventing heat illnesses.

EHS Leadership Week 2023 begins August 21

This year’s EHS Leadership Week is scheduled for August 21-25. The online event is hosted by EHS Daily Advisor and focuses on helping companies with their leadership strategy around workplace safety. Free resources and virtual events occur throughout the week.

OH&S webinar about hearing conservation

Occupational Health & Safety magazine is hosting a free webinar next week to discuss how to create a hearing conservation program. The webcast will examine employer responsibilities around hearing conservation, including topics such as creating a program, monitoring noise levels and training employees. The webinar is scheduled for August 9.

Safety program gamification could reduce workplace accidents

An article from Occupational Health & Safety magazine describes how gamification engages employees in workplace safety programs. The article discusses the psychology of gamification, provides examples of gamified programs and includes key components of gamification for employers to follow.