Intel develops new farming technologies
- Intel has developed a new technology that enables self-driving tractors at a California vineyard but could face backlash from the local unions.
- The tractors are automated for repetitive tasks and free workers to take on higher-value responsibilities
- A farmer maps out the routes for tractors, which move across the vineyard in two shifts around the clock, navigating their way through fields without any humans at the wheel.
- Sensors on the tractors detect obstacles in their paths, while other sensors steer them around any anomalies.
OSHA reaches partnership with unions
- OSHA, the Wisconsin On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program, Knutson Construction and local labor unions partnered for worker safety and health during the construction of the Mayo Clinic Health Systems’ Bed Tower in La Crosse.
- The partnership seeks to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, and control or eliminate serious workplace hazards.
- It also establishes a foundation on which an effective safety and health program exists during the construction of the 287,000-square-foot addition to the existing Center for Advanced Medicine and Surgery Building.
- Partners will also focus on educating employees and employers about workers’ rights and employers’ responsibilities under the OSHA Health Act.
Workers want to override OSHA and head to court
- The Third Circuit Court of Appeal is deciding when federal courts may intervene in workplace safety disputes between employers and their employees.
- OSHA has been at odds with worker advocates about “imminent danger” on the job, where employees can seek relief in the courts.
- This is the first time a federal appellate court has been asked to make a decision as to when workers dissatisfied with OSHA’s response to safety concerns can ask a court to intervene in the administrative process.
- Advocacy groups want judges to intervene if they feel OSHA is not acting accordingly.
Doctor reaches agreement over COVID threats
- A doctor in Providence, R.I., reached a settlement with federal labor officials over allegations that he retaliated against a former receptionist, Victoria Sherman, who was pregnant and complained about COVID risks at work.
- Dr. Anthony Farina Jr. and his practices were already suspended amid claims that he exposed patients and staff to COVID
- Farina, his sister and Brenda DeSignore, his manager, agreed to permanently refrain from discriminating or retaliating against any employee who raises concerns under OSHA rules.
- They are also barred from threatening to fire employees who raise concerns.