OSHA Insights Blog
Proposed OSHA Standard Targets Heat Hazards
After years and years of trying, OSHA has finally introduced a proposed rule/standard aimed at mitigating heat-related risks in the workplace. Pursuant to the rule, employers in all industries are required to develop injury and illness prevention plans for heat...
Stay Informed on OSHA’s Updated Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA has announced a final rule updating its Hazard Communication Standard (again), effective July 19, 2024. Here is a breakdown of what businesses need to know: Changes in the Updated Hazard Communication Standard 1) Comprehensive Labeling on Small Packaging Labels...
OSHA’s New Emphasis on the Southern States
OSHA recently announced its plans to restructure its regional operations and establish a new regional office in Birmingham, with the intention of establishing a stronghold in states like Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Florida....
Navigating OSHA’s Enhanced Heat-Related Oversight
As we move into the warmer months, it is crucial for businesses to be aware of OSHA’s focus on heat-related workplace issues and its continued effort to adopt specific OSHA standards relating to heat—which currently do not exist. These efforts are part of the agency's...
Understanding The Risks of OSHA’s 2023 Public Data Disclosure
On April 18, 2024, OSHA released its injury and illness data from 2023 that it gathered under its “Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses” regulation published July 2023. This regulation exposes businesses to new risks, with OSHA relying on the data to...
OSHA’s “New” Rule on Employee Representation: A Gateway for Outside Access
The Department of Labor announced a “new” rule expressly allowing employees to authorize any representative--including union representatives and outside attorneys, amongst others--to represent them and accompany OSHA officers during OSHA inspections. This rule, set to...
US Department of Labor Announces Annual Adjustments to OSHA Civil Penalties for 2024
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced the annual increases to their fine schedule for 2024. These changes took effect on January 16th, 2024. The increases follow the 2015 Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act to...
BIRD FLU FACTS
Employers should know the facts about avian influenza, such as risks, transmission, and symptoms, and how to use personal protective equipment with OSHA’s resources to prevent those who work with animals from catching it. Employers of operations that work with poultry...
U AND T CERTIFICATIONS
The Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 created two types of immigration benefits available for victims of certain crimes: U visa The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) provides temporary immigration status to victims of an outlined list of...
SUBMIT YOUR 2024 INJURY AND ILLNESS DATA
Employers should be aware that if they meet certain size and industry requirements, they must provide 2024 injury and illness data to OSHA by March 2. Employers must submit 300A data if your establishment meets one of the following criteria: 250 or more employees and...