March 28, 2025
OSHA leadership announcements, tornado preparedness resources and more
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
The DOL has announced new leadership appointments for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Amanda Wood Laihow will serve as the deputy assistant secretary for OSHA. Wood Laihow previously served as a commissioner to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and has extensive experience in labor and employment policy. Michael Asplen has been appointed as OSHA's senior policy advisor. Asplen's background includes roles at the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC)
OSHA highlights tornado preparedness and response resources
As tornado season approaches, OSHA emphasizes its tornado preparedness and response resources. The guidance covers potential hazards in tornado-affected areas, including downed power lines, sharp objects and structural instability. The agency provides general precautions for response and recovery operations, such as proper protective clothing and equipment use.
The National Safety Council (NSC)
NSC reports over 44,000 traffic deaths in 2024
The NSC estimates 44,680 people died in preventable traffic crashes in the United States during 2024, a slight decrease from 2023. The preliminary analysis highlights significant regional differences, with some states experiencing increases of over 10% in fatalities while others saw decreases of 10% or more. NSC continues to advocate for safety technologies and the implementation of the Safe System Approach to reduce roadway fatalities.
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
ASSP report highlights key themes shaping workplace safety
ASSP has published its fourth corporate safety insight report, identifying three interconnected themes that shape workplace safety: workforce challenges, aligning safety with business strategy and safety leadership and culture. The report, based on ASSP's Corporate Listening Tour, provides firsthand views from business leaders across industries. It aims to help environmental health and safety professionals make strategic decisions to improve workplace safety.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH addresses persistent safety risks in construction industry
In its recent newsletter, NIOSH reports that while overall workplace fatalities decreased in 2023, the construction industry continues to face disproportionately high fatality rates. Slips, trips and falls accounted for almost 40% of construction fatalities, with falls from 6 to 30 feet being particularly dangerous. NIOSH and its partners are conducting various research initiatives to address these risks, including studies on improved helmet design, robotic safety and personal protective equipment fit. The agency is also collaborating with OSHA and other organizations to address the OSHA Focus Four Hazards in construction.