May 24, 2024

Final OSHA hazcom rule, resource on bird flu and more

Safety inspector

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA announces final rule updating hazcom standard

OSHA announced a final rule that will update its hazard communication standard by improving the clarity and accuracy of chemical labels, especially on smaller containers. This change is intended to allow employees and first responders to more quickly identify the hazards present and take quicker action during emergencies. This updated rule will also align the standard with the United Nation’s Globally Harmonized System. It takes effect on
July 19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

CDC publishes an updated response to H5N1 bird flu

The CDC updated its summary of the current situation of the H5N1 bird flu, which has spread to poultry and U.S. dairy cows. According to the agency, the public health risk is low, but the CDC is monitoring for bird flu activity in people. Although there has only been one recorded human case of bird flu in 2024, the CDC still recommends protective actions such as avoiding unprotected contact with infected animals and both wild and dead birds.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

The benefits of yoga and meditation in the workplace

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. This webinar will discuss the research behind yoga and meditation and how these practices can benefit employee wellbeing. Experts will also explain how to implement yoga and meditation alongside traditional workplace wellbeing initiatives. The webinar will take place on May 30 at 1 p.m. CDT.

Studies, resources, trends, news

Webinar on preventing heat illnesses on construction work sites

An upcoming Industrial Safety & Hygiene News webinar will explore how to implement the heat stress management standard that was recently approved by the American National Standards Institute and the American Society of Safety Professionals. This presentation will cover how to develop a heat stress management program, acclimatize employees to the heat, plan training content and more. The webinar will take place at 1 p.m. CDT on June 5.

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