April 26, 2024
OSHA releases 2023 data, ASSP provides respirator guidance and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA released 2023 injury and illness data, which is a result of its revised regulations for submitting data on workplace incidents that went into effect July 2023. Data includes summary information from employer’s OSHA Form 300As as well as individual injury and illness data from certain establishments in high-hazard industries. OSHA hopes that posting this recordkeeping data will aid in the control of workplace hazards and prevention of injuries and illnesses.
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
The essentials of buying and using respirators
This ASSP article covers the basics of buying and using respirators. It emphasizes that respirator use should be a last resort after other control methods like ventilation have been explored. The article also details the requirements for a respiratory protection program, including medical evaluations, fit testing, training and program evaluation. Finally, it provides a step-by-step guide for selecting the right respirator and filter based on the specific hazard.
The Department of Labor (DOL)
DOL hosts online forum on regulatory compliance
The DOL is hosting a free, two-day online forum aimed at employers in the construction industry. Experts from various government agencies will present and lead discussions to help attendees understand and comply with federal regulations regarding employee safety, wages and other workplace issues. The virtual event takes place May 8 and 9.
The National Weather Service (NWS)
The NWS HeatRisk tool is a color-coded forecast map that predicts the risk of heat-related illnesses within a 24-hour period with a forecast range of 7 days. It goes beyond standard forecasts by considering how unusual the heat is and how long it will last. This helps employers, especially those managing heat-sensitive workforces, make informed decisions about precautions by providing a risk level from green, or low, to magenta, or high, before official heat warnings are issued.
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