August 18, 2023

MSHA seeks silica input, tool tracks heat emergencies and more

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

MSHA is extending the public comment period on proposed amendments to its standard to protect miners from silica dust. The comment period will remain open until Sept. 11, 2023, adding 15 days to the process. This extension was requested by the mining community and other interested parties who needed more time to comment on the proposal.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

HHS launches a tool that tracks emergency responses to heat illnesses

HHS launched a new online tool that maps emergency responses to heat-related illnesses across the country. The EMS HeatTracker will help public health officials and decision-makers identify and allocate resources to communities most at risk.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

NIOSH hosts free webinars about protecting employee health

NIOSH’s Total Worker Health (TWH) program is continuing its free webinar series to highlight the latest research and case studies for protecting the safety and health of employees. The next webinar covers health care industry strategies and takes place on August 24, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. CDT.

Studies, resources, trends, news

Recent survey focuses on eating habits of construction industry employees

A recent survey detailed eating habits of construction employees and found hunger to be a key concern related to safety, health and productivity. Over 50% of respondents were worried about making mistakes at work due to hunger. The survey also revealed reasons employees weren’t eating lunch, including cost, lack of time and limited access to food options.