Report: 90% drop in world COVID-19 deaths
- There has been a nearly 90% drop in recent COVID-19 deaths globally compared to nine months ago, according to the World Health Organization.
- While this is “cause for optimism,” WHO urged vigilance against the pandemic as variants continue to occur.
- There were over 9,400 deaths linked to the coronavirus reported to WHO, but in February 2022, weekly deaths had topped 75,000 worldwide.
- However, vaccination gaps between rich and poor countries are still wide, and new variants continue to emerge.
Best ways to protect employees, keep up with OSHA
- A proactive approach can help ensure workplace safety and keep up with OSHA standards.
- This strategy can reduce costs, including reductions in workers’ compensation premiums
- Finding and fixing hazards before they cause injuries has irrefutable benefits to a company’s bottom line.
- Firms should provide OSHA training for employees and leverage their new knowledge and awareness to help keep their business flowing safely and smoothly.
OSHA must do more to protect construction workers
- The construction industry’s workforce has increased by 31 percent over a 10-year period, but the rate of deaths remains unchanged.
- Between 2011 and 2020, 10 out of every 100,000 workers died from an on-site accident.
- The consistent death toll underscores the challenge of the opioid epidemic, but also inconsistent safety enforcement.
- Part of the problem is that OSHA continues to struggle with inadequate funding and insufficient staff.
OSHA to oversee the construction project
- OSHA has partnered with Swank Enterprises for the construction of the new $32 million dining facility on the University of Montana campus.
- The partnership will help prevent workplace accidents and fatalities through training and flowing best practices.
- Swank and OSHA want to protect the safety and health of workers employed by subcontractors involved in different phases of the $39 million project.
- Part of the cost includes preparation, precast concrete, structural steel, HVAC, electrical, and roof work.