Reminder: OSHA Reporting Deadline Approaching – March 2, 2024
In July 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor introduced a significant update to injury and illness reporting requirements for numerous construction companies. This new rule, effective since January 1, 2024, mandates that companies in certain “high hazard” industries, with 100 or more employees, electronically submit specific documents to OSHA annually. These documents include Form 300A…
MSHA Issues Safety Alert on Rotating Conveyor Rollers
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) recently issued a safety alert addressing the alarming increase in serious and fatal injuries associated with rotating conveyor rollers. The alert emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and adherence to best practices to prevent accidents that can result in permanent disabilities or even fatalities. The safety alert highlights…
Is Your Facility at Risk for Combustible Dust Hazards?
In 2022, a staggering 163 fires, 50 explosions, 89 injuries, and 49 fatalities were recorded due to combustible dust incidents. These alarming statistics call attention to the persistent threat and severe consequences associated with combustible dust in industrial settings. As safety professionals, it is crucial to increase safety knowledge and take proactive measures to protect…
The Importance of Third-Party Independent Process Safety Audits
In August 2023, a devastating explosion at Sherwin-Williams’ paint plant in Garland not only resulted in an injury but also raised serious concerns about the company’s adherence to process safety standards. The aftermath led to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issuing $290,000 in penalties, citing various violations. This incident emphasizes the critical importance…
OSHA Issues Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for New Emergency Response Standard
In a move to increase the safety and well-being of emergency workers nationwide, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has unveiled a proposal for a new emergency response standard. This proposed rule aims to replace the existing 44-year-old fire brigades standard, established in 1980, with a comprehensive framework tailored to the evolving needs of…
CSB Clears Longstanding Backlog
In late 2023, the US Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) successfully eradicated a longstanding backlog of 17 unfinished accident reports, a persistent challenge for the organization. Among these incidents was one dating back seven years. Now, the CSB is committed to preventing a recurrence of the issues that contributed to the backlog, focusing…
Lessons Learned from the New London School Explosion of 1937
The New London School explosion of March 18, 1937, stands as one of the darkest chapters in the history of Texas. This devastating incident, triggered by a natural gas leak, resulted in the destruction of the New London School in Texas, claiming the lives of over 300 students and teachers. It remains the third-deadliest disaster…
API Releases Updates to Standards for Hazard Management in Process Plant Structures
Earlier this week, the American Petroleum Institute (API) announced the release of the latest editions of three crucial safety standards: Recommended Practice 752 (RP 752), 4th edition. Recommended Practice 753 (RP 753), 2nd edition. Recommended Practice 756 (RP 756), 2nd edition. API Recommended Practices 752, 753 and 756 aim to increase the safety of individuals…
Ensuring Worker Safety in Extreme Cold and Snow
As frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall affect regions of the US this week, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of employees working in these challenging conditions. The extreme cold poses potential risks, including frostbite and hypothermia, making it imperative for employers to monitor weather forecasts, implement flexible work arrangements, and provide appropriate…
The Incident Commander’s Role in Post-Incident Investigations
Following a catastrophic incident such as a workplace fire, explosion, or fatality, the aftermath demands a meticulous approach to investigation. One key resource that is critical to this process is the Incident Commander. Their role goes far beyond crisis management; it extends into the area of preserving crucial evidence as well as ensuring the accuracy…
