December 8, 2023
OSHA’s final recordkeeping rule becomes effective Jan. 1, tips for staying safe during the holidays and more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA’s updated rule on electronic submissions of annual injury and illness data goes into effect on January 1, 2024. This rule applies to establishments with 100 or more employees in specific industries, who will be required to submit data from OSHA forms 300, 301 and 300A through the agency’s Injury Tracking Application (ITA). Electronic submissions will be accepted from January 2, 2024 to March 2, 2024.
OSHA reminds employers to keep employees safe during the holiday season
During the holiday season, employees often encounter more safety hazards due to meeting increased customer demand, working outdoors in winter weather and other seasonal activities, like installing holiday decorations while on ladders or roofs. OSHA directs both employers and employees to a video and other resources created to address these holiday-specific risks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A CDC web tool presents weekly updates on respiratory virus activity, starting with a national summary of RSV, influenza and COVID-19 cases. A color-coded map of the United States offers a view of this activity at the state level. Charts showing weekly emergency room visits and percentages of positive respiratory illness tests are also available.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
DOL offers guidance to keep employees safe from gender-based harassment
The DOL is participating in this year’s global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence by explaining how employers can prevent gender-based violence and harassment. The agency offers guidance on how to assess the workplace for risks, reduce risks, implement a workplace policy, provide regular training and change the culture so the workplace can be safer for all.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH highlights how chemicals can cause hearing loss
An article by NIOSH’s director explains how hearing loss can be caused by exposure to certain chemicals. Some of these chemicals are very common, including tobacco smoke, pesticides, fuels and lead. Preventions tips and additional resources are listed, such as the NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) Program.
Studies, resources, trends, news
Report shows workplace deaths up 12% globally in past 20 years
An International Labour Organization (ILO) report estimates that over 2.9 million employees died on the job in 2019. Of those fatalities, 2.6 million were from work-related diseases and three-quarters of these stemmed from cancer and respiratory or circulatory diseases. ILO also offers strategies to reduce these deaths, including increasing governance and improving national and global partnerships.