Federal Rules Expand List of Diseases Covered by Fund for September 11 First Responders

On the eve of the eleventh anniversary of the attack on the World Trade Center the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) announced that new federal rules have expanded the list of diseases covered by the health care fund for September 11 first responders. The list now includes certain types of cancer. NIOSH made the changes after reviewing scientific evidence which suggests that toxic dust and fumes from the buildings are linked to diseases, including cancer.

In a statement released by NIOSH late Monday afternoon Dr. John Howard said, “The publication of this final rule marks an important step in the effort to provide needed treatment and care to 9/11 responders and survivors through the WTC Health Program.”… Continue reading

7 Companies Cited for Violations Exposing Workers to Asbestos at San Antonio Work Site

Asbestos DustThree Miami-based contractors and four San Antonio-based subcontractors have been cited for 45 serious violations and one other-than-serious violation for exposing workers at a San Antonio construction site to asbestos hazards.  The proposed penalties for these violations is $148,000.

The violations include failure to:

• train workers on the hazards of working with asbestos

• abate asbestos hazards and ensure that employees work in regulated areas

• perform air monitoring for asbestos exposure

• use the required engineering controls to prevent exposure

• require the use of proper respiratory and personal protective equipment

• ensure than an asbestos assessment is performed by a qualified person

The Miami-based contractors include: Newport Property Ventures LLC, who was issued citations for… Continue reading

OSHA Announces New Campaign on Reducing Falls

New Campaign On Reducing Falls Announced by OSHA


Fall SignWhen it comes to fatalities in Construction, falls lead the list. In 2010, out of 774 total fatalities, 264 of those were from falls, a whopping 35%!. The grand majority of those were falls to a lower level (97%). As such, OSHA has set their Fall, 2012 Prevention Campaign to address this vital area of safety.

Using the watchwords PLAN – PROVIDE – TRAIN, OSHA is partnering with NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Heath) and the Construction sector of NORA (National Occupational Research Agenda) to raise awareness among workers and employers regarding common fall hazards in construction. This includes focus areas such as falls from ladders, scaffolds and roof-tops.… Continue reading