September 26, 2024
OSHA’s emergency response rule, training grants and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Last week, OSHA issued a statement on the status of its emergency response rulemaking and voluntary emergency responders. The agency explained that ongoing research and input is valuable in helping determine the economic feasibility of the proposed rule for volunteer organizations. OSHA also stated that it’s committed to minimizing detrimental effects and urged stakeholders to continue providing input at the hearing scheduled for November 12.
OSHA has awarded $12.7 million in Susan Harwood Training Grants to 102 nonprofit organizations nationwide. These grants will fund education and training initiatives aimed at creating safer workplaces, with a focus on hazard awareness, avoidance and controls. The program targets training for employees with limited English proficiency and those in disadvantaged communities and high-hazard industries.
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC)
DWC announces average weekly wage adjustment
DWC has issued notice of the upcoming adjustment of Texas’ average weekly wage (SAWW) as well as minimum and maximum weekly benefits. The SAWW increased by 3.8% and will apply to injuries occurring from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025.
Tips on colors and symbols in safety signage
DWC highlights the importance of colors and symbols in workplace safety signage by citing research on how visual cues impact emotions and actions. The article outlines how different colors convey specific messages, from red signaling danger to green indicating safety. It also emphasizes the importance of universally understood symbols and provides tips for employers on creating effective safety signs.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH webinar explores the future of safety research
NIOSH is hosting a Foresight Friday webinar on the future of occupational safety research. The presentation will cover findings from a recent project that investigated how long-term safety research approaches might differ from current methods. The webinar will explore opportunities for enhancing safety research methods, innovation, systems thinking, networking and scientific ethics. It will take place on October 11 at 10 a.m. CDT.
Studies, resources, trends, news
Safety+Health magazine recently revisited an eight-year-old article on common hazards spotted during safety audits to see what’s changed. Consultants and instructors from the National Safety Council (NSC) shared their latest thoughts on seven dangerous trends including working at heights, poor housekeeping, forklifts and more.