OSHRC Commissioner (Thomasina Rogers) Retires
For those of you that follow the OSH Review Commission, one of the commissioners (Thomasina Rogers) has retired. Commissioner Attwood will serve as the Chair in the interim. There are currently two Commissioners at OSHRC. It is uncertain as to who may be nominated to replace Rogers at the Commission. There are a few major cases pending action (on the docket) which are awaiting a decision.
White House Seeks Comment for an Executive Order: “Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces”
The Administration will be publishing this proposed Executive Order (guidance) in tomorrow's Federal Register. The EO seeks to increase safety accountability for those companies that have contracts with federal agencies. This will likely stir up a lot of controversy as it plays out. Something to watch. SUMMARY: The Department of Labor is proposing guidance to assist federal agencies in the implementation of Executive Order 13673, Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces (the Order). The
Air Force Advises Rider Precautions (Safety)
US Air Force takes safety beyond duty activities on base to include soldier's motorcycle riding safety off-base. Capt Andrew Schrag states: "Riding a motorcycle is an inherently dangerous activity ... We are committed to lowering our motorcycle incident rate and ensuring the safest possible riding experience for our members." The article states: Airmen are encouraged to re-evaluate basic safety tips, such as the "3-GPS" steps. Check:
-- Gear: Motorcycle condition, drinking w
Why Does It Take So Long For OSHA To Finish A Rule?
An interesting read if you're interested in gaining a small glimpse into the rulemaking process. The rulemaking process for OSHA really is a complex endeavor with "health" standards requiring much more analysis than a safety standard - in a vast majority of the cases. OSHA has rulemaking requirements that are mandated from prior judicial decisions (including US Supreme Court), legislative language, and even Presidential Executive Orders. It's not an easy process, but it certa
Peoria Manufacturer Shuts Down After Being Cited $144K
USA Technologies in Peoria, IL shuts down after being cited by OSHA for $144K. Approximately 70 employees were laid-off in the process. It's not uncommon, as in this case, for companies that are placed in OSHA's Severe Violator Enforcement Program (SVEP) to also experience "...increased insurance premiums and customers backing out, closing down became an obvious decision. PEORIA - A Peoria company faces a hefty fine for safety violations.
Inspectors from the Occupational Sa
OSHRC Releases Decision on Delek Refining Case Related to Statute of Limitations
OSHRC releases its decision in the Labor vs Delek Refining (PSM) case which concludes that continuing violations (a PSM violation in this case) are NOT limited by the 6 month statute of limitations.
Foam Fire Supression System - This is Pretty Cool Video
Pretty cool. Fairchild Air Force base tests their foam fire suppression system in a hanger. Judging by the clean up mess it created, I'd say ... that's commitment!
OSHA Will Publish Final Rule for Confined Space in Construction on Monday
OSHA's new final rule for Confined Spaces in Construction. Here's the standard... Gets published in the federal register on Monday.
Rule Summary: Enhanced Tank Car Standards and Operational Controls for High-Hazard Flammable Trains
The long awaited final rule for Crude-by-Rail transportation was released today by DOT/PHMSA. The major new requirements includes the need for Electronically Controlled Pneumatic (ECP) Brakes, 9/16" shell thickness, and an extended timeline schedule for implementation (retrofits), train route disclosures, and other requirements: http://www.dot.gov/mission/safety/rail-rule-summary (Update: Union Pacific threatens lawsuit over the contrived ECP requirements (new braking system
