Figuring out how to turn down the noise in the workplace just got easier with the release of new Buy Quiet web resources from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The new, easy to use materials highlight the benefits of a Buy Quiet program, explain how to establish a program in your workplace, and provide additional resources for finding quieter tools and machinery.
The Buy Quiet initiative encourages companies to purchase or rent quieter machinery and tools to reduce noise exposures for workers, helping to prevent work-related noise-induced hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common work-related injury in the United States; approximately 22 million US workers are exposed to hazardous noise exposures at work each year. “Work-related noise-induced hearing loss is preventable and, with these new resources, NIOSH is working to help employers make better decisions that will have a lasting impact on the quality of life for their workers,” said NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D. “Buy Quiet programs, as part of our Prevention through Design initiative, provide a way to create inherently safer worksites that benefit both workers and employers in improving the health and safety of our nation’s workforce.”
A Buy Quiet program can help to decrease the risk of hearing loss at the worksite, minimize the impact of noise on communities, and assist companies in complying with OSHA and other noise regulation requirements.
The new resources from NIOSH are intended for employers to use as part of Buy Quiet programs or to help them take the first steps in considering how Buy Quiet can improve their workplace. The newly released Buy Quiet resources include a video, several posters, and links to partner Buy Quiet websites.
NIOSH’s Buy Quiet effort is part of the broader Hearing Loss Prevention Program, which conducts research on the causes of occupational hearing loss and works to deliver practical prevention solutions to employers.
EPA’s New Solvent Wipe, Shop Towel Rule Demystified
- Does the rule apply to both cloth and paper wipes and rags?
- What solvents can be on the towels, and which are prohibited?
- Does the rule also apply to towels that contain characteristic hazardous waste?
- Can P or U-listed wastes be on the towels?
- How must the towels be stored on-site?
- Do they need to be tested for anything?
- How long can they be stored?
- How must the containers be marked or labeled?
- How must they be prepared for transportation?
- Where can you ship them and what are the disposal and recycling options?
- What are the documentation requirements?
- How is the new rule impacted by current state regulations?
How to Implement OSHA’s Globally Harmonized Hazard Communication Standard (GHS)
OSHA has issued a final rule revising its Hazard Communication Standard, aligning it with the United Nations’ globally harmonized system (GHS) for the classification and labeling of hazardous chemicals. This means that virtually every product label, safety data sheet (formerly called “material safety data sheet” or MSDS), and written hazard communication plan must be revised to meet the new standard. Worker training must be updated so that workers can recognize and understand the symbols and pictograms on the new labels as well as the new hazard statements and precautions on safety data sheets.
Macon RCRA and DOT Training
Cleveland RCRA and DOT Training
Greensboro RCRA and DOT Training
New Reference Exposure Levels for Benzene
RELs are airborne concentrations of a chemical that are not anticipated to result in adverse non–cancer health effects for specified exposure durations in the general population, including sensitive subpopulations. The three adopted RELs cover different types of exposure to benzene in air: infrequent 1-hour exposures, repeated 8-hour exposures, and continuous long-term exposure.
OEHHA is required to develop guidelines for conducting health risk assessments under the Air Toxics Hot Spots Program (Health and Safety Code Section 44360(b)(2)). In response to this statutory requirement, OEHHA develops RELs for many air pollutants, including benzene. The benzene RELs were developed using the most recent “Air Toxics Hot Spots Program Technical Support Document for the Derivation of Noncancer Reference Exposure Levels,” finalized by OEHHA in 2008. These three RELs may now be used as appropriate in Air Toxics Hot Spots program risk assessments.
A draft of the benzene RELs was released on June 21, 2013 to solicit public comment, and was discussed at public workshops in Sacramento and Diamond Bar, CA during the subsequent 60-day public review period. The document was revised to reflect public comments, and peer reviewed by the State’s Scientific Review Panel on Toxic Air Contaminants (SRP) in November 2013 and again in February 2014. The document was modified based on the comments of the SRP and finalized.
The REL values are:
- Acute REL (for infrequent 1–hour exposure): 27 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3), equivalent to 8 parts per billion (ppb)
- 8–Hour REL (for repeated 8–hour exposures): 3 ?g/m3, equivalent to 1 ppb
- Chronic REL (for continuous long–term exposures): 3 ?g/m3, equivalent to 1 ppb
OSHA Urges Increased Safety Awareness in Fireworks Industry in Advance of July 4 Celebrations
OSHA is urging the fireworks and pyrotechnics industry to be vigilant in protecting workers from hazards while manufacturing, storing, transporting, displaying, and selling fireworks for public events.
“As we celebrate the July 4 holiday with fireworks and festivities, we must also be mindful of the safety of workers who handle pyrotechnics,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. “Employers are responsible for keeping everyone safe on the job and taking appropriate measures to protect workers from serious injuries or death.”
Washington state occupational safety and health officials are investigating an explosion that occurred last week at a fireworks facility, killing one worker and injuring two more. In another recent incident, a worker suffered fatal burns caused by an explosion at a fireworks facility. OSHA cited the company more than $45,000 for safety violations relating to explosive hazards.
OSHA’s Web page on the pyrotechnics industry addresses retail sales of fireworks and fireworks displays.
Construction Trailer Specialists Cited for Exposing Workers to Amputation, other Serious Hazards
OSHA has proposed penalties of $82,390 for the company based in Sikeston.
“These types of hazards can cause disabilities and even death,” said Larry Davidson, OSHA’s acting area director in St. Louis. “Construction Trailer Specialists has a responsibility to protect workers from known hazards in its facility. Companies that are cited for repeat violations demonstrate a lack of commitment to employee safety and health.”
A repeat violation exists when an employer previously has been cited for the same or a similar violation of a standard, regulation, rule, or order at any other facility in federal enforcement states within the last five years. Similar violations were cited at the same facility in 2010.
Eight serious safety violations were cited for failing to develop procedures that would protect workers from dangerous machines, including failing to train workers in the need and use of lockout/tagout devices and to provide appropriate equipment to implement procedures. The company was cited for inadequate machine guarding, failing to secure equipment to the floor properly, and using damaged slings.
Five serious health violations involved storing combustible waste in uncovered receptacles and lack of head protection when lifting overhead and damaged wiring insulation. The company was cited for failing to clean the spray booth properly, use welding screens and provide various respiratory protections, including medical evaluations, fit testing, unsanitary respirators, and lack of face-to-face piece seal or valve function. A serious violation occurs when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.
Additionally, violations were issued involving failing to conduct monthly inspections of wire ropes and crane hoists and a lack of voltage markings on various pieces of equipment.
Shar-Craft Inc. Fined $82,090 for Accident in Confined Tank Space
Cal/OSHA cited industrial service provider Shar-Craft, Inc., following an investigation of a flash fire inside a metal tank that resulted in serious burns to an industrial painter. Cal/OSHA cited the employer for knowingly using an unauthorized electric lamp while the painter was working in an explosive atmosphere, for not having a permit to work in a confined space and for not having the proper ventilation or protective equipment for such a hazardous space, among other violations. Total proposed penalties are $82,090.
On December 17, 2013, the worker was spraying a flammable coating on the inside walls of a large steel tank when a fire was ignited by a portable halogen light. The 37- year-old Shafter man was rescued but spent three days in the Burn Unit of the San Joaquin Community Hospital.
“This was a preventable accident,” said Christine Baker, Director of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). “The employer was aware that working inside the confined space was dangerous but did not take the required steps to avoid putting workers at serious risk.” The Division of Occupational Safety and Health, known as Cal/OSHA, is a division of DIR.
Confined spaces are defined as large enough for workers to enter, but have limited openings for exit and entry, with a potential for hazards related to the atmosphere and space. They are found in multiple industries, and include water and sewer pipes, boilers, silos, kilns, vaults, tunnels, and pumping stations. They can also be deadly. In 2011, there were seven confined space fatalities in California; one fatality and two injuries resulted from attempted rescues. This safety program includes training in identifying hazards, creating a safety plan and rescue procedures.
Cal/OSHA’s investigation found Shar-Craft, Inc., did not meet the requirements for working in a confined space. Cal/OSHA cited the Shafter-based company on June 16 for one willful serious accident-related violation and three serious violations related to the lack of required entry permit for confined spaces, lack of proper equipment and inadequate training for employees working in the tank. Twelve additional citations were issued for a range of general violations, including failure to report the serious work- related injury within eight hours of the accident (which was reported four days later).
“The purpose of requiring confined space entry permits is to prevent trouble before work begins,” said Cal/OSHA Acting Chief Juliann Sum. “This case involved flammable vapors that needed to be monitored and diluted to safe levels, and a lamp approved for this type of operation was required to avoid bringing a source of ignition into a flammable atmosphere.”
Follow-up Inspection Finds Birdsboro Kosher Farms Corp. Still Violating Safety Standards
After a follow-up inspection that began in December 2013, OSHA has cited Birdsboro Kosher Farms Corp., for failing to correct previously cited serious safety violations found at the kosher poultry processing facility in Birdsboro. Following the inspection, the company faces $59,400 in proposed penalties.
“The safety of all workers, including vulnerable, non-English speaking Latinos employed at the Birdsboro facility, continues to be jeopardized by this company’s repeated failure to correct these hazards,” said Kevin Kilp, director of OSHA’s Harrisburg Area Office. “It is imperative that this employer complete the necessary actions to address these unsafe conditions to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.”
OSHA’s inspection found four repeat, three serious, and one other-than-serious safety violation. The repeat violations involve the company’s failure to develop machine-specific procedures for preventing a machine from turning on during servicing; provide machine guarding; guard live electrical parts; and provide personal protective equipment for the eyes and face for employees exposed to electrical hazards. The repeat violations carry a $39,600 penalty.
The serious violations, with an $18,810 penalty, were cited for failing to provide training to employees on safe maintenance of machines. The company was cited for not having a hearing conservation program to protect employees from hearing loss. Carrying a $990 penalty, an additional violation was cited for failing to keep required records.
In 2012, OSHA conducted previous inspections at the site when it operated under the name of MVP Kosher Foods, LLC, and issued 15 serious, two repeat, and four other-than-serious violations with fines totaling $140,000. Birdsboro Kosher Farms Corp., was formed in late 2012, and is a successor company to MVP Kosher Foods, LLC.
Industrial Insulation Group Exposes Workers to Caustic Chemicals
Industrial Insulation Group, LLC, was cited for five serious safety and health violations following an inspection by OSHA. The violations include failing to protect workers from the dangers of caustic chemicals. The agency began the inspection after receiving a complaint in January 2014 concerning these hazardous working conditions. Proposed penalties total $41,800.
“It is troubling to know that while this employer initially corrected the hazard after OSHA issued a previous citation, it did not maintain the necessary safety standards. Although, this employer knew to provide eyewash and a shower for employees working with caustic chemicals, it continued to expose workers to the same hazard,” said Joseph Roesler, OSHA’s area director in Mobile.
Gamma-aminopropyltriethoxysilane can cause irritation and damage to the eyes, skin, and kidneys. The repeat violation relates to a substantially similar violation cited at this facility in February 2013.
Three serious violations were cited for not providing an eye and body wash shower for employees working with formaldehyde; failing to provide training on safety and health hazards for workers exposed to formaldehyde; and exposing workers to dangerous moving machine parts. OSHA assessed $14,300 in penalties for these violations. Another violation found was allowing workers to use a respirator with facial hair.
Industrial Insulation Group manufactures a variety of industrial insulation, such as calcium silicate pipe and block insulation; perlite pipe and block; mineral wool pipe; board and blankets; high-temperature, fire-rated board; insulation adhesives; and cements.
DEP Offers Online Refresher Training Program for X-Ray Equipment Operators
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced it has partnered with a professor of health physics from Bloomsburg University to develop refresher training materials for operators of X-ray equipment who conduct low-risk procedures such as general radiography and dental X-rays.
“Continued radiation protection training can reduce the number and seriousness of accidents associated with X-ray usage,” DEP Bureau of Radiation Protection Director Dave Allard said. “So it is important that X-ray operators retain and further develop their skills to continuously improve safety practices and protect patients and public health.”
DEP regulations require operators to document that they have completed a recommended two contact hours or four units of continuing education every four years in specialized subject areas such as sources of radiation exposure and methods of protection. The subject areas should be applicable to the procedures they perform and equipment they use.
Generic training materials for low-risk procedures have been developed for DEP by a Bloomsburg University professor of health physics to assist X-ray equipment registrants in ensuring the continuing education regulatory requirements are met for the safe operation of X-ray systems.
Included in the refresher training materials posted online are a fact sheet, PowerPoint presentation, and associated training notes that can be downloaded at no cost.
OSHA Schedules Informal Meeting to Discuss Efforts to Improve Agency’s Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Program
OSHA has scheduled an informal stakeholder meeting to gather information on how the agency can increase the effectiveness of its Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Program. The meeting will be held October 22, 2014, in Washington, D.C.
The meeting will focus on the use of the private sector to improve timeliness and efficiency of the NRTL recognition process, certification marks, factory and field inspections, and other topics if time permits.
In 2012, the Government Accountability Office conducted a study of OSHA’s NRTL Program to examine the program’s recognition process. GAO published its findings in December 2012 and recommended that OSHA consider various approaches for recognizing NRTLs to include using private accreditation bodies and contractors. GAO also recommended that OSHA review current regulations to identify changes to existing procedures, including better alignment with international standards on accreditation.
The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., October 22, 2014, at the US Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210.
NRTLs are independent laboratories that meet OSHA’s requirements for performing safety testing and certification of products used in the workplace. A NRTL must meet the requirements in the NRTL Program regulations in order to obtain and retain OSHA recognition. Recognition is an acknowledgement by OSHA that a NRTL can perform independent safety testing and certification of specific products covered within the NRTL’s scope of recognition. Recognition also allows employers to use products certified by that NRTL to meet those OSHA standards that require approval by a NRTL.
Lack of Fall Safety for Denver Roofers Leads OSHA to Educate to Keep Workers Safe
The residential roofing industry in Denver and area communities, including Pueblo and Colorado Springs, is being cited in record numbers for failing to keep workers safe by providing necessary fall prevention equipment and training.
“In the past six months, we have received 63 complaints related to unsafe work practices, and this is the beginning of the roofing season. The cost of providing fall prevention equipment is nominal compared with the cost of a senseless loss of life and livelihood,” said David Nelson, OSHA’s area director in Englewood. “Falls from heights of 6 to 15 feet accounted for 24 percent of all fatal falls in 2012.”
To prevent these injuries and fatalities through education and outreach, OSHA launched the 2014 National Safety Stand-Down, which was held June 2-6. An estimated 1 million workers and 25,000 businesses, including construction industry leaders, put a halt to their work for one hour during that week to discuss the importance of recognizing fall hazards and implementing fall safety measures.
“Consumers should be aware that, in many cases, the contractor they sign an agreement with is not necessarily the contractor installing the roof. Many roofing companies are using a different name with a higher Better Business Bureau rating to get the job, but have no roofers to do the install,” said Nelson. “Consumers need to ask questions, such as: Are the installers your employees or subcontractors? Are they insured? What is their past work history? How will the project be managed? What kind of fall protection will be used? Hold your contractors accountable. The last thing a consumer wants is someone falling, especially on their property.”
OSHA and Habitat for Humanity-Omaha Establish Partnership to Protect Volunteer Workers
Habitat for Humanity-Omaha and OSHA have established a partnership to provide a safe and healthful work environment for employees, volunteers, and subcontractors involved in residential construction projects. The partnership will include a requirement for any person working on a construction site to receive a site-specific construction safety orientation addressing hazards and safety procedures.
“This partnership reflects a commitment to the safety of employees and volunteers who dedicate their time to Habitat for Humanity projects,” said Bonita Winingham, OSHA’s area director in Omaha. “This partnership will develop and implement a comprehensive safety and health management system for Habitat for Humanity sites, including a heat illness prevention policy and a fall protection program.”
As part of the voluntary partnership, both OSHA and Habitat for Humanity-Omaha will work together to develop resources to help protect workers and volunteers on their projects.
Safety and health training will also be provided in Spanish when the need arises. Weekly safety training of all contractors and subcontractors will be documented.
MIOSHA and Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan Sign Alliance to Protect Workers
The Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc., (ABC of Michigan) and the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) signed a formal alliance recently to provide ABC in Michigan members and others with safety and health information, guidance, and access to training resources. The MIOSHA program is part of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
“We are pleased to join with ABC of Michigan to protect our working men and women,” said MIOSHA Director Martha Yoder. “This Alliance offers great opportunities to provide needed training and help create safer and healthier workplaces throughout Michigan.”
The purpose of this alliance is to increase and promote on the job safety and health to ABC of Michigan membership by creating better communication between ABC of Michigan members and MIOSHA for the benefit of a safer workforce. The greatest value that the alliance provides is the outreach and training that is the foundation of the ABC activities. Training goals set for the alliance primarily address “focus four” issues; fall hazards, electrical hazards, struck by hazards, and caught between/crushed by hazards. In developing this Alliance, MIOSHA and ABC of Michigan recognize that MIOSHA’s Consultation Education and Training (CET) Division is an integral part of this effort. Total member contact outreach capability is approximately 20,000 people.
Signing the Alliance was Perry Merlo, 2014 Chairman of the Southeastern Michigan Chapter; Mark Sawyer, President, Southwestern Michigan Chapter; Dan Murphy, 2014 Chairman, Greater Michigan Chapter; Jimmy Greene, President, Greater Michigan Chapter; Paul Lemley, 2014 Chairman, Western Michigan Chapter; Norm Brady, President, Western Michigan Chapter; David Mollitor, Executive Board Member, ABC of Michigan; Chris Fisher, President, ABC of Michigan; Martha Yoder, Director, MIOSHA; Bart Pickelman, Deputy Director, MIOSHA; and Nella Davis-Ray, CET Division Director.
Alliances enable organizations committed to workplace safety and health to collaborate with MIOSHA to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. Alliances are open to all groups, including: trade or professional associations, businesses, labor organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies.
There are many benefits to participating in an alliance with MIOSHA. Through this program, organizations will:
- Build trusting, cooperative relationships
- Network with others committed to workplace safety and health
- Exchange information about best practices
- Leverage resources to maximize worker safety and health protection
“The MIOSHA program is dedicated to working with employers, both public and private sector, to find innovative ways to enhance workplace safety and health,” said Yoder. “Through alliances, MIOSHA can offer employers a voluntary, cooperative relationship to eliminate serious hazards and achieve a high level of safety and health.”
Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan is a statewide trade association dedicated to providing Michigan with high-quality, affordable, safe, and on-time construction. A leading construction industry voice with state government, ABC provides many member services including legislative advocacy, networking opportunities, member benefits, legal updates, business development and educational opportunities. The ABC of Michigan is made up of four chapters, the Greater Michigan Chapter, Southeastern Michigan Chapter, Western Michigan Chapter and the ABC of Michigan.
Steel Industries, Plants #1–4, Receive Renewed MIOSHA Recognition of their Workplace Safety and Health Excellence
Steel Industries – Plants #1–4 recently received renewal of their prestigious Michigan Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MSHARP) Award certifications from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA). All four plants are located in Redford, Michigan.
MIOSHA established the MSHARP Award to recognize employers that have achieved workplace safety and health excellence far beyond their peers. The MIOSHA program is part of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
“All four Steel Industries plants are to be commended for its exemplary commitment to workplace safety and health. They have created a culture where protecting workers is a top priority,” said MIOSHA Director Martha Yoder. “These plants have been MSHARP sites since 2009 and recognize that a safe workplace provides the foundation for productive workplaces.”
MSHARP targets small manufacturers to help them develop, implement, and continuously improve the effectiveness of their workplace safety and health management system. MSHARP provides an incentive for employers to emphasize accident and illness prevention by anticipating problems, rather than simply reacting to them.
The MIOSHA Onsite Consultation Program within the Consultation Education and Training (CET) Division operates the MSHARP Program. Onsite consultants work with employers to help them become self-sufficient in managing occupational safety and health. MSHARP worksites earn an exemption from “programmed” MIOSHA inspections on a yearly basis. The MIOSHA review team consisted of George Zagresky, CET Senior Safety Consultant, and D.W. Johnson, CET Senior Industrial Hygienist.
Steel Industries, Inc., specializes in custom open die forgings and seamless rolled rings. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code for Steel Industries plants #1, 2, and 3 is 332111. Plant #4 is 332710. The incidence rates for all four locations are well below the national average for their NAICS code.
“MSHARP requires a comprehensive consultation visit, and the correction of all serious workplace safety and health hazards,” said Yoder. “Steel Industries has developed a safety and health system that provides first-rate protection for their workers.”
The facilities have excellent systems in place, which incorporate each of the seven required elements: Hazard Anticipation and Detection; Hazard Prevention and Control; Planning and Evaluation; Administration and Supervision; Safety and Health Training; Management Leadership; and Employee Participation.
Glastender Inc. Receives Renewed MIOSHA Recognition of their Workplace Safety and Health Excellence
Glastender, Inc., recently received renewal of its prestigious Michigan Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MSHARP) Award certification from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA). MIOSHA established the MSHARP Award to recognize employers that have achieved workplace safety and health excellence far beyond their peers. The MIOSHA program is part of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
“Glastender is to be commended for its exemplary commitment to workplace safety and health. They have created a culture where protecting workers is a top priority,” said MIOSHA Director Martha Yoder. “This company has been a MSHARP site since 2011 and recognizes that a safe workplace provides the foundation for a productive workplace.”
MSHARP targets small manufacturers to help them develop, implement, and continuously improve the effectiveness of their workplace safety and health management system. MSHARP provides an incentive for employers to emphasize accident and illness prevention by anticipating problems, rather than simply reacting to them.
The MIOSHA Onsite Consultation Program within the Consultation Education and Training (CET) Division operates the MSHARP Program. Onsite consultants work with employers to help them become self-sufficient in managing occupational safety and health. MSHARP worksites earn an exemption from programmed MIOSHA inspections on a yearly basis. The MIOSHA review team consisted of Bob Dayringer, CET Senior Onsite Industrial Hygienist, and Bill Shane, CET Senior Onsite Safety Consultant. The site manufactures glass washing equipment and restaurant/bar steel cabinets. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code for Glastender is 332322.
“MSHARP requires a comprehensive consultation visit, and the correction of all serious workplace safety and health hazards,” said Yoder. “Glastender has developed a safety and health system that provides first-rate protection for their workers.”
The facility has an excellent system in place, which incorporates each of the seven required elements: Hazard Anticipation and Detection; Hazard Prevention and Control; Planning and Evaluation; Administration and Supervision; Safety and Health Training; Management Leadership; and Employee Participation.
Some of Glastender’s new improvements include:
- Employees’ involvement improved as production employees are included in a review of their work instructions and personal protection equipment (PPE) risk assessments
- All mandated safety and health programs are reviewed annually
- Setting a numerical goal for submission of safety action items (these items are designed to report to management with suggestions for safety and health improvement)
- Incentive programs now include excellent methods of reinforcing positive employee safety and health actions
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