A federal grand jury has indicted the operator and six management officials of a Cambria corn mill – where a May 31, 2017, explosion killed five workers and injured 15 others – on nine criminal counts, including two counts related to willful violations of federal workplace safety standards for grain handling.

Federal workplace safety investigators determined that an oil company’s failure to take adequate safety precautions contributed to a drilling site explosion near Grassy Butte on Nov. 4, 2021, that permanently disabled one worker and left two others with serious injuries.

Not only do employers and companies have a moral obligation to protect their workers and employees, but they also have a legal one. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1970, regulations regarding lone worker safety have been predominantly guided by two core standards.

Demand for goods is likely at an all-time high. Many people who were stuck at home during the pandemic restrictions opted to make home improvements and upgrades. Combine that with significant supply chain slow-downs and there is a recipe for extreme demand.

Loading docks are a key part of any warehouse or factory that regularly moves products in and out of the facility. The perpetual movement of people, equipment, and merchandise through these spaces can create a dangerous environment for staff and visitors. What does it take to design a safe and efficient loading dock?

Each year, the families and friends of fallen workers, and organizations, including the U.S. Department of Labor and its Occupational Safety and Health Administration sadly observe April 28 as Workers Memorial Day.