Fed-OSHA fines Wisconsin tire service chain in employee’s death

Fed-OSHA has fined a Green Bay, Wisconsin-based tire service chain $14,500 following of a July incident that killed a 28-year-old employee who was installing a tire at a store in Wisconsin. The agency also is investigating a similar workplace death in August of an employee at a Minnesota location. Green Bay Press Gazette

Fed-OSHA fines Florida employer $24K after employee dies in summer heat

A North Point, Florida ecological restoration and consulting company has been fined more than $24,500 after a 42-year-old employee died in July after working in the Apalachicola National Forest. According to the citation, employees worked on an invasive plant removal project in 97-degree heat with 48 percent humidity and clear skies while wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants throughout an eight-hour shift. Miami Herald

MIOSHA releases notification on employee’s death

Michigan OSHA has confirmed a 61-year-old man was killed on the job last week while replacing a hydraulic line at a forest products firm. Keweenaw Report

Nevada OSHA workplace penalties increase

Administrative penalties for workplace safety violations levied by Nevada OSHA against employers who are not in compliance increased as of January 15. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 requires the Department of Labor annually evaluate civil penalties to adjust for inflation. Northern Nevada Business Weekly

Nevada OSHA hospitality industry should expect programmed inspections

Hospitality establishments in Nevada may want to prepare for potential onsite inspections by Nevada OSHA, according to Karen Tynan and Noel M. Hicks of Ogletree Deakins. The targeted inspections have thus far generally focused on ensuring that establishments have instituted compliant safety policies and trained all employees on areas including a written safety program; a written bloodborne pathogen exposure control plan (ECP); a written hazard communication program, and more. National Law Review

Oregon employee advocate’s office expands

The State of Oregon’s independent advocate to help injured employees navigate the workers’ compensation system is changing its name and adding workplace safety and health as part of its services. The Ombudsman for Injured Workers is now the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, and will work with the Department of Consumer and Business Service director and Oregon OSHA to identify ways to improve protections and interactions with employees. KTVZ