Nevada OSHA violation penalties increase
Increased workplace safety violation penalties imposed by Nevada OSHA against employers took effect Saturday, a result of inflation, according to the agency. Nevada OSHA’s administrative penalties will increase by 6.22%, for any penalty assessed on or after January 15, 2022, regardless of when the inspection was opened. KLAS (Las Vegas)
Oregon OSHA fines roofing contractor for repeat violations
Oregon OSHA has fined a Seaside-based contractor more than $15,000 for repeat violations related to a roofing project including exposing employees to potential falls that could seriously injure or kill them. Oregon OSHA’s inspection found two employees working on the roof with no protection against potential falls to the ground of up to 22 feet. It was the fourth time the contractor allegedly violated the standard since February 2020, according to the agency. Cannon Beach Gazette
Fed-OSHA investigating death of employee at Nebraska meatpacking plant
Fed-OSHA is investigating the Friday death of a 48-year-old employee at a meatpacking plant in Grand Island, Nebraska. KSNB
Destroyed in tornado, Kentucky candle factory will close
The Mayfield, Kentucky, candle factory that was leveled by a tornado last month is shutting down and 251 employees are being laid off, a company official said. More than 100 people were working at the factory on December 10 when the tornado hit, killing eight people during an outbreak of at least 30 tornadoes across six states. WDSU
Employees at family-run organic food plant report injuries
Amy’s Kitchen is among a select group of brands with a reputation for being socially responsible, but one former and four current workers say that image is at odds with the reality of injuries on the factory floor due to increased production line speeds. NBC News
Who is still covered by vaccine mandates?
Though a recent Supreme Court ruling means Fed-OSHA does not presently have authority to require private-sector employees to be vaccinated or undergo testing, the court left open the possibility for the agency to regulate workplaces where COVID-19 represents a direct threat, such as places where people work close to others or where they work around vulnerable people. So who is still covered by federal vaccine mandates? Wausau Pilot