Safety in the News: August 2018

Why Being "OSHA Legal" Isn't Enough (EHS Today)
In 1970, OSHA created permissible exposure limits (PELs) that remain the rule of law to this day, though knowledge regarding exposure and toxicity has continued to evolve since then.

OSHA Delays Compliance Date for Parts of General Industry Beryllium Standard (Safety+Health)
OSHA is extending to Dec. 12 the compliance date for certain ancillary provisions in its beryllium standard for general industry, the agency has announced.

OSHA Releases New Silica Rule FAQs and Training Videos (USGNN)
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released new guidance for employers and workers on requirements for its silica standard through an updated frequently asked questions (FAQs) page and six new training videos.

OSHA Bulletins Address Respiratory, Hearing Protection for Temp Workers (Safety+Health)
Staffing agencies and host employers share responsibility for protecting temporary workers from respiratory and noise hazards, according to separate bulletins recently released by OSHA as part of its Temporary Worker Initiative.

Is Your Worksite Lighting Meeting OSHA Standards? (EHS Daily Advisor)
OSHA’s illumination standards for construction (29 CFR 1926.56) and shipyard employment (29 CFR 1915.82) are intended to ensure that specific work areas or areas where workers are stationed or passing through are provided with lighting that is sufficient to enable the workers to see hazardous conditions and avoid injury.

OSHA Issues Proposed Rule Regarding Electronic Submission Requirements (LEXOLOGY)
The proposed rule would leave in place the obligation for employers in high-risk industries and establishments with 250 or more employees to submit OSHA Form 300A (Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses).

OSHA: Texas Pipe-Laying Company Exposed Workers to Trenching Hazards (EHS Today)
OSHA has cited El Paso Underground Construction to the tune of $190,642 after the company allowed its workers to work in dangerous conditions.