April 9, 2021
OSHA to review scientific data before moving forward with COVID-19 emergency standard, details on OSHA’s COVID-19 inspections and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Emergency COVID-19 standard is put on hold
The new secretary of labor announced the agency will put COVID-19 standard plans on hold while it reviews the latest scientific data and guidance. The Biden administration previously asked OSHA to determine the need for a COVID-19 emergency temporary standard by March 15.
Guidelines for COVID-19 inspections
OSHA’s updated guidance for Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) is providing employers with insight into how the agency is handling COVID-19 inspections. The agency’s Response Plan includes safety program elements to evaluate, applicable standards and specific inspection items for health care facilities.
Workplace violence bill for health care passes House committee vote
The Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Services Act was approved by the House Education and Labor Committee on March 24. The bill was re-introduced in February and would require an OSHA standard on workplace violence prevention plans for the health care and services industries. The bill will now go before the full House.
Studies, research, trends, news
An Occupational Health & Safety article discusses 10 tips for improving safety in warehouses. Topics include preventing back-over accidents, keeping loading docks dry and maintaining safety barriers.
New resource on workplace bullying and violence
J.J. Keller produced a new white paper, which covers information on workplace bullying and violence. The free resource aims to provide tools on identifying, preventing and resolving incidents within your organization.