The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (National COSH) said today that as investigations of the ongoing Flint water crisis continue, public workers have a right to know that they are protected by state and federal whistleblower statutes, as well as civil service rules.
Consumers urged to check for open recalls at least 2X a year
January 27, 2016
The U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new public awareness campaign called Safe Cars Save Lives that urges consumers to check for open recalls at least twice a year and to get their vehicles fixed as soon as parts are available.
Obliterative bronchiolitis, an irreversible form of lung disease in which the smallest airways in the lung (the bronchioles) become scarred and constricted, blocking the movement of air, was previously identified in flavoring manufacturing workers and microwave popcorn workers who were occupationally exposed to diacetyl (2,3-butanedione) or butter flavorings containing diacetyl. Now, NIOSH research finds that workers at coffee processing facilities may also be at risk.
Study finds devices may decrease sedentary time, increase physical activity
January 26, 2016
A pilot study finds that using smartphone reminders to prompt people to get moving may help reduce sedentary behavior. The study was supported by the American Cancer Society (ACS), with technical expertise provided by the e-Health Technology Program at the MD Anderson Cancer Center.
CDC is working with other public health officials to monitor for ongoing Zika virus transmission. Today, CDC added the following destinations to the Zika virus travel alerts: Barbados, Bolivia, Ecuador, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, Guyana, Cape Verde, and Samoa. On January 15, CDC issued a travel alert (Level 2-Practice Enhanced Precautions) for people traveling to regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing: the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory; Brazil; Colombia; El Salvador; French Guiana; Guatemala; Haiti; Honduras; Martinique; Mexico; Panama; Paraguay; Suriname; and Venezuela. Specific areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing are often difficult to determine and are likely to continue to change over time.
Leaders recognized for dedication to safety excellence
January 26, 2016
The National Safety Council has announced the 2016 CEOs Who “Get It,” presented annually to organizational leaders who demonstrate continued and outstanding dedication to employee safety and well-being both on and off the job.
OSHA inspections initiated after the agency learned of two serious injuries at Mississippi Polymers, Inc. in the fall of 2015 led to 11 serious safety violations for the Corinth-based company.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Green Builder Media announced the release of their newest e-book, "Design with Fire in Mind: Three Steps to a Safer New Home" to help educate homeowners, builders and developers on ways to build, design, site and maintain homes with wildfire safety in mind.
When OSHA inspectors returned to an Atlanta food manufacturing facility and found previously cited hazards had reoccurred, the management of Schwan’s Global Supply Inc. took an unusual step.
During his final year in office, President Obama is expected to usher in some major new regulations, including rules regarding worker safety, health and the environment.