Workplace Safety News & Notes – February 2018

workers at a construction site

Here’s a collection of safety news from around the web:

List of Active OSHA Emphasis Programs

OSHA currently has nine active National and Special Emphasis Programs under enforcement. They include: Compustible dust, Hazardous machinery, Hexavalent chromium, Lead, Process safety management, Trenching & excavation and others. See the full index and get details on each program here.

Updated ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management – Guidelines Now Available

The revised ISO 31000:2018 standard includes changes to nearly every section. It provides a common approach to managing risk and is not industry- or sector-specific. It can be used throughout the life of an organization and applied to any activity, including all levels of decision-making. Learn more.

OSHA Now Accepting 2017 Form 300A Data Submissions

Employers can now to electronically report their Calendar Year 2017 Form 300A data to OSHA. All covered establishments must submit the information by July 1, 2018. OSHA provides a secure website with three options for data submission: Manually entering data into a web form; Upload a CSV file to process single or multiple establishments at the same time; or users of automated recordkeeping systems will have the ability to transmit data electronically via an API (application programming interface). Learn more.

CCOHS Offers Guidance to Stop Workplace Violence

Most people think of violence as a physical assault. However, workplace violence is a much broader problem. It is any act in which a person is abused, threatened, intimidated or assaulted in his or her employment. CCOHS has assembled a site with resources that describe the problem, identify risk factors and high-risk groups, and give tips on how to prevent incidents. Learn more here.

2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) Gaining Traction

As of February 1, the 2017 NEC is in effect in 19 states, with 9 more in the adoption process. The 2017 edition addresses the advancement of privately-owned wind and solar power generation and distribution equipment, including higher voltage systems. The 2014 edition is still in effect in 20 states. Eight states are still using 2011 or 2008 versions. See which states are currently using each edition – and track progress toward adoption of the latest rules – here.

New ISO Worker Safety Standard Expected in March

The final draft of ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety) was recently approved. It provides a framework to improve employee safety, reduce workplace risks and create better, safer working conditions all over the world. Publication is expected in March. Get details here.

Upcoming Safety Webinars Presented by OH&S

  • Feb. 28 – 6 Tips to Provide Fall Protection Training that Sticks
  • March 1 – Ladder Safety – Plan, Provide & Train to Save Lives
  • March 7 – Identifying and Managing the Hazards of Combustible Dust
  • March 22 – Upgrade Your Safety Management Program
  • On Demand – Making the Case for Contractor Management: Examining the Safety Benefits of Third-Party Management
  • Learn more or sign up.