OSHA has published a new seasonal guidance page addressing ways to help employees improve their resistance to influenza while working and commuting. A commuter train operated by Trinity Rail Express rolls across a small bridge along Rock Island Road in Irving, Texas on November 2nd, 2017. Image © 11/2017 by Nikki Burgess; all rights reserved.
Halloween has come and gone, and November is rushing right in with the holiday season just around the corner. Will regulatory activity speed up with the season? We’ll have to wait and see. Here’s what was new this week, with Information Collection Requests and meeting notices being the primary stories:
OSHA
- The agency renewed an ICR relating to the status of industrial slings, hoists, and elevators, all important components of many businesses. See the renewal here
- Another ICR renewal references the Control of Hazardous Energy, or “Lockout/Tagout” (LOTO). LOTO issues are one of the “top ten” citable subjects in OSHA’s enforcement programs, so it’s always good to know what the agency is interested in seeing about this vital safety subject. Get the latest right here
- One unhappy consequence of the return of cold weather is “Flu Season.” Influenza can really hit workplaces hard, reducing productivity and posing a threat to employee health. OSHA has established a new webpage devoted to ways companies can reduce the risk of major outbreaks in their facilities. See the guidance right here
U.S. DOL
The Department of Labor issued ICR’s on Ionizing Radiation and minimum standards for Fire Brigades, both potential issues in large industrial sites. See the ICR’s and if they affect your operation here:
U.S. DOT
- Frequent flyers will be interested to learn that the DOT is renewing its use of an online complaint form for air travelers. The form is intended to make it easier for consumers to voice their disapproval with perceived airline failures. Catch up on the program right here
- Meanwhile DOT has also extended its comment period for regulatory review of its programs and rules. This part of the policy instituted under the current administration to reduce or eliminate regulations that it sees as a hindrance to the conduct of legitimate business. Still want to comment on transport regulations you’d like to see modified? Here’s your way in—the new deadline is December 1st
U.S. EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency announced its first public meeting for the new “Chemicals Review Program Implementation and Approaches for Identifying Potential Candidates for Prioritization for Existing Chemical Risk Evaluations Under the Amended Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)” program. That’s a mouthful, but in plain English it means that new chemicals coming to market require review by EPA if they fall under the provisions of the TSCA. EPA is just implementing the program, so if you are a chemical manufacturer and want to advance your point of view, now’s your chance. See the details here
TSA
The agency is also issuing a renewed ICR relating to air travel, this one involving the TSA pre-check program. Are expanded biometrics in your frequent flyer future? Find out here (actual answer if you can’t wait to read the issuance– yes)
Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board
It’s that time of the quarter again—the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board will meet on November 14th to look into the most recent issues in the industry. Get the meeting schedule and details here
Mexico Lithium Battery Update
The government of Mexico announced it would accept the harmonized treatment of lithium batteries per international standards (UNMR/ICAO/IMDG Code) and noted a deadline of 1/1/2018 for the phase-out of the older battery marks and labels.
See an unofficial translation of the announcement here
Official Spanish version from the Mexican government
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