February 3, 2023

New OSHA enforcement guidance, tips for avoiding burnout and more

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA’s new enforcement guidance targets life-threatening hazards

OSHA issued new enforcement guidance aimed at making penalties more effective in stopping repeat and life-threatening exposures. OSHA personnel now have authority to cite instance-by-instance citations instead of grouping them together when they identify a high-gravity, serious violation. The guidance takes effect March 27 and will cover regulations such as lockout/tagout, machine guarding, permit-required confined space, respiratory protection, falls and trenching.

OSHA updates combustible dust emphasis program

OSHA has updated its National Emphasis program on combustible dust to reflect historical incidents and enforcement activity. As a result, six industries have been added to the program. The updated program went into effect January 30.

Studies, resources, trends, news

Tips for avoiding misrepresented or counterfeit respirators

An Occupational Health and Safety article explains how to avoid purchasing misrepresented or counterfeit respirators. Tips are provided for utilizing the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) certified equipment list and checking exterior print on respirators.

The links between burnout, stress and workplace safety

An EHS Today article discusses why stress leads to burnout and how it negatively affects workplace safety. Tips for avoiding burnout include managing distractions, scheduling breaks and maintaining physical health.