OSHA issues proposed rule to adopt Globally Harmonized Hazard Communication System- OSHA published a proposed rule Sept. 30 to align the Hazard Communication Standard with provisions of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals. See the fact sheet and Sept. 30 Federal Register notice for details.
Recordkeeping is focus of new National Emphasis Program-OSHA launched a National Emphasis Program on recordkeeping to determine the accuracy of injury and illness data recorded by employers. The NEP involves inspecting occupational injury and illness records prepared by businesses and enforcing regulatory requirements when employers are found to be under-recording injuries and illnesses. See the directive for more information.
OSHA awards more than $6.8 million in safety and health training grants- OSHA awarded more than $6.8 million in grants for safety and health training and educational programs to 30 recipients, including labor unions, employer associations, colleges and universities, and other nonprofit organizations. The Susan Harwood Training Grants support workplace safety and health programs that educate workers in industries with high hazard and fatality rates, workers with limited English proficiency, hard-to-reach workers and supervisors, and small business employers. These grants will support training programs addressing topics such as crane safety, fall protection, combustible dust, and emergency preparedness and response (pandemic influenza).
Free safety training video for temporary workers raises workplace safety awareness-Temporary workers could benefit from a new video that provides occupational safety and health training. The video includes a general safety orientation and six modules focusing on indentifying hazards at construction, landscaping, manufacturing and food distribution sites, warehouses and offices. It is a product of an alliance among OSHA's Columbus, Ohio, Area Office, the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation, OSHA On-site Consultation, Staffmart, and the Ohio Staffing and Search Association.
QuickTips on fire safety - According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' preliminary data, fires and explosions accounted for three percent of fatal occupational injuries in 2008. OSHA is reminding employers about its resources to help ensure that workers remain safe on the job and not become a fire victim. OSHA's safety and health topics page on fire safety offers information to help prevent fire-related workplace injuries and fatalities. Look for more fire safety resources on OSHA's publications page. See your next issue for more workplace safety and health QuickTips.