July 16, 2021

Updates to OSHA’s National Emphasis Program, OSHA guidance for tree care industry and more

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

COVID-19 National Emphasis Program sees significant changes

OSHA has made significant changes to the National Emphasis Program for COVID-19, which began earlier this year. One of the changes is a new naming designation, from National Emphasis Program to Interim Enforcement Response Plan. Additionally, the amount of targeted industries has been reduced to those identified as being the most at risk for COVID-19 exposure including heath care, warehousing and meat and poultry processing.

OSHA updates enforcement guidance for tree care industry

OSHA has updated enforcement guidance for employers within tree care and tree removal operations. The guidance provides inspectors with a list of common hazards and applicable standards. Some topics addressed are falls, personal protective equipment (PPE), noise exposure, machine guarding and first-aid kits.

New alliance will focus on grain handling hazards

OSHA has signed a two-year alliance with the Ohio On-Site Consultation Program, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and the Ohio Agribusiness Association to focus on safety in the grain handling industry. The partnership will train workers on six common hazards: engulfment, falls, auger entanglement, struck-by, combustible dust explosions and electrocutions.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

MSHA to host national stand down July 20

Due to injuries involving powered haulage activity, MSHA will host a national Stand Down for Safety Day on July 20. The event is intended to educate both employers and miners on best safety practices for powered haulage, vehicle rollovers and general training.