October 25, 2024
OSHA’s latest top 10 list, animal processing updates and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
At this year’s NSC Safety Congress & Expo, OSHA presented its preliminary list of the most frequently cited workplace safety standards for fiscal year 2024. Fall protection – general requirements, remains the top citation for the 14th consecutive year. Other top violations include hazard communication, ladders and respiratory protection.
OSHA has released new inspection guidance for the animal slaughtering and processing industry to reduce injuries and illnesses in these high-risk workplaces. Inspections will focus on hazards such as sanitation, ergonomics and machine safety. The guidance addresses the needs of employees with limited English skills and aims to protect all employees, including temporary staff.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH and OSHA partner for lone worker safety
NIOSH and OSHA are working together to make jobs safer for employees who work by themselves. These employees might face more dangers, feel lonely and have trouble getting help quickly if something goes wrong. The partnership aims to share information about risks, develop ways to prevent problems and find better ways to protect employees who work alone.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
CDC offers guidance for respiratory virus season
The CDC has released guidance on how to protect against respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV during fall and winter. The agency recommends core strategies such as staying up to date with immunizations, practicing good hygiene and improving air quality. Additional protection can come from masks, physical distancing and testing. The CDC emphasizes these measures are especially important when viruses are widespread in the community or for those at higher risk of severe illness.
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC)
DWC posts webinar on free smoke alarm programs
DWC recently posted a recorded webinar about free smoke alarm programs offered by the Insurance Council of Texas and American Red Cross. The webinar explains how to obtain and safely install free smoke alarms. Interested parties can access the webinar recording online.