New Jersey enacts new COVID-19 workplace safety protocols
Effective Thursday, November 5, pursuant to Governor Phil Murphy’s October 28, executive order, every New Jersey business that operates with employees and customers physical present at the worksite, will be required to comply with the state’s new COVID-19 workplace safety protocols. It applies to every New Jersey business, non-profit, governmental or educational entity. It does not apply when its new workplace safety protocols interfere with the operational duties of any first responders, emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, health care personnel, and several other categories of employees, according to two attorneys at Genova Burns LLC. JD Supra
OR-OSHA adopts new temporary rules
Oregon OSHA late last week adopted a temporary set of rules aimed at protecting employees during the latest outbreaks of COVID-19. Starting December 7, employers must notify employees if there’s been a workplace exposure within 24 hours and get input from employees on what they think their hazards are in the workplace and then come up with a plan to cut down on hazards. These temporary rules will be in effect until May. KEZI
What to do when dentist thinks COVID is a ‘joke’
A dental team member is frustrated about her dentist-boss not taking COVID-19 seriously. What can she do? Dentistry iQ
Nevada OSHA stepping up enforcement of COVID-19 standards
Nevada OSHA on Monday announced that it cited four employers last week for alleged COVID-19 violations, including lack of social distancing between employees and the public and lack of face coverings, and handed down a total of more than $13,000 in penalties. Going forward, Nevada OSHA may issue citations if violations are observed on the initial visit, and an inspection will be opened with the employer. KLAS (Las Vegas)
BLS stats show improving safety data for US poultry processors
The total recordable poultry processing illness and injury rate for 2019 was 3.2 cases per 100 full-time workers annually, down from 3.5 in 2018. The incidence of occupational injuries and illnesses within the poultry sector’s slaughter and processing workforce has fallen by 86 percent over the last 25 years and continues to decline, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Poultry Site
Essential tips for first-time forklift operators
If you’re at the helm of a forklift, you have an immense amount of power in your hands. Conducting a thorough inspection of the forklift before operating it will help you remain in-line with OSHA standards. Skipping the pre-shift inspection also can lead to injuries or product damage. Dixon Pilot