December 1, 2023
Advisory committee to meet on mental health for health care employees, NIOSH discusses social connections at work and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
At the next National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) meeting, new members will be introduced and updates will be given from OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). There will also be discussions about the core value of safety, whistleblower protection and the NIOSH Mental Health for Healthcare Workers Campaign. The hybrid meeting is open to the public and scheduled for 10 a.m. EST on December 12.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
A recent NIOSH Science Blog article discusses the importance of social connection at work in response to the Surgeon General's call to address loneliness and isolation. The article also explores the relationship between social connection and employee health, current trends in loneliness and recommendations for promoting social connectedness at work.
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC)
DWC adopts rules on claims for death benefits
DWC has adopted amendments and added a section to rules on claims for death benefits. Eligible beneficiaries can now submit claims to either DWC or the applicable workers’ compensation insurance carrier under the new rules. The insurance carrier will also be required to copy DWC when sending a notice of potential workers’ comp death benefits to a beneficiary.
Studies, resources, trends, news
Women in manufacturing need eye protection that fits
An Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) article discusses the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) to better fit women, whose numbers in manufacturing have increased since the pandemic. Guidelines and key features are provided to help women choose the best eye protection for the job.
OH&S webinar on total worker health
OH&S is hosting a webinar next week to examine the key principles and objectives of total worker health, including the promotion of employee well-being as it relates to the reduction of workers’ compensation claims. Guidance will also be given for implementing this type of program. The webinar is scheduled for December 12.