Don’t let all the new, exotic workplace hazards distract you from the basics. The COVID-19 pandemic, historic wildfires in the West, and unprecedented levels of excessive heat may be capturing the headlines and dominating the newscasts right now, but more common hazards in your facility or at your worksites need your attention.

On July 27, AIHA (formerly the American Industrial Hygiene Association) revealed concerns about the federal COVID-19 emergency temporary standard (ETS) in a 13-page letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

On July 28, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) called for stakeholder input on updating its mechanical power press standard (29 CFR §1910.217).

Employers in New York state must have an infectious disease exposure prevention plan in place by August 5, according to a state Department of Labor spokesperson. However, the precautions under the plans only go into effect when state public health authorities make a “highly contagious communicable disease” declaration.

On July 23, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced it is seeking nearly $1 million in penalties from 4 employers at a poultry processing facility where 6 workers died from nitrogen exposure caused by a malfunctioning freezer.