Archives

Looking for a Change in the Weather: Global Climate Change, Rising Ambient Temperatures, and Worker Health and Safety

When we think about climate change, we tend to think about “big picture” impacts: rising seas that affect coastal cities, reduced snowmelt in mountainous regions leading to water shortages in the valleys below, and diminishing habitat for some endangered species. But there are smaller-scale impacts, also, and some of them will affect planning for health […]

Workplace Injury? The Buck Stops with You

One of the most confusing tasks for environment, health, and safety (EHS) managers has to do with recording and reporting workplace injuries. Sometimes, it is very clear when a workplace injury occurs—and sometimes, it is not so easy. In a recent letter of interpretation, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) did not shed much […]

Tips to Prevent Worker Exposure to Flavorings

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has officially made a recommendation to limit the exposure of workers to flavoring compounds. Yesterday we reviewed the recommended exposure limit (REL) and who’s affected. Today we offer tips for controlling worker exposure to these compounds at your facility.

Seat Belt Use Reaches All-Time High

The federal government reports that seat belt use in the United States has reached its highest level since regular national surveys began in 1994. How much of a difference does seat belt use matter? Keep reading to find out.

Employer Not Getting the Message on Scaffolding Hazards

Citations against a contractor cited more than 40 times for scaffolding violations have been upheld by the commission that reviews contested OSHA cases. Despite years of enforcement activity, this employer has not shown encouraging signs of changing its ways. Get details here.

FMCSA Establishes National Drug and Alcohol Testing Clearinghouse

On December 2, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a final rule that establishes a national drug and alcohol clearinghouse for commercial truck and bus drivers. The clearinghouse database will serve as a central repository containing records of violations of FMCSA’s drug and alcohol testing program by commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders.

Exposure Limit Recommended for Flavorings

It’s official. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has officially made a recommendation to limit the exposure of workers to flavoring compounds. And don’t think it’s just for microwave popcorn plants! Today we will review the recommendations and who’s affected. Tomorrow we will see what the future holds for controlling worker exposure […]

The Business Case for Stormwater Management: 3 Opportunities

Yesterday we reviewed the latest in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) guidance for community stormwater planning and why EHS managers should be involved. Today we will look at how some communities are promoting the development of green infrastructure (GI) for commercial and industrial facilities.