August 11, 2023
OSHA announces emphasis program for warehouses, video series discusses mental health and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA launched a national emphasis program to prevent hazards in warehouses, distribution facilities and high-risk retail establishments. The three-year program is in response to a combination of job growth and higher than average injury and illness rates in the industry. Under the program, OSHA will conduct comprehensive safety inspections focused on several common hazards.
Safe + Sound campaign features videos about mental health
OSHA partnered with the Associated Builders and Contractors to discuss mental health topics in a series of free videos. Topics include starting the conversation about mental health in the workplace and building a mental health toolkit.
OSHA resources for heat illness prevention
OSHA recently updated some of its heat illness prevention materials. In addition to posters and brochures, employers can find a new sticker promoting hydration as well as a revised, illustrated fact sheet. Each resource is available in English and Spanish, and some materials are offered in as many as 20 languages.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
DOL seeks nominations for national advisory committee members
The DOL is looking to fill two vacancies on its 12-member National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health. The committee meets at least twice a year and advises the Secretary of Labor and Secretary of Health and Human Services. Nominations are due by August 29.
Studies, resources, trends, news
AirNow is an interactive site that provides current fire and smoke locations. The free tool is available through a collaboration between multiple government agencies across the nation. In addition to locating wildfires near businesses and worksites, the site can be used to find location-specific data on air quality.