Skin problems and diseases are the most common non-injury health issues reported by workers, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which has produced a guide for skin safety and chemical exposure.
OSHA recently updated its Federal Agency Targeting Inspection Program (FEDTARG) directive for fiscal year 2012. FEDTARG directs programmed inspections of federal agency establishments that experienced high numbers of lost time injuries during FY 2011.
Excerpted from Dr. Howard's NIOSH blog: "What factors will influence the workforce and the world of work over the next several years?" The following influences seem likely:
Congress is "taking its direction on science and environmental health policy from the chemical industry, rather than independent scientists who lack a financial interest in the question of whether some chemicals can cause cancer and other health problems."
Some young people in Wisconsin are getting an early appreciation for workplace safety, thanks to a program that pairs the Wisconsin Department of Health Service’s Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS) program with Operation Fresh Start, a non-profit organization that helps at-risk youth obtain educational and job skills.
Come down from "plateau of acceptance," urges Norris
January 5, 2012
With the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) embarking upon its second century of existence, ASSE President Terrie S. Norris, CSP, ARM is issuing a call for action to the occupational safety, health and environmental profession.
Mold's increasing importance as a public health issue has led to significant updates in the American Industrial Hygiene Association's (AIHA) "Facts About Mold" brochure, which has been newly released.
21,000 Americans die from radon related lung cancer each year
January 4, 2012
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is encouraging Americans this month, as part of National Radon Action Month, to take simple and affordable steps to test their homes for harmful levels of radon gas.