Less than half of federal prison staff have accepted vaccine from BoP

All federal prisons employees have been offered the COVID-19 vaccine, but just 49 percent have accepted it so far, the Federal Bureau of Prisons director reported last week. The director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons recently said he could not compel staff to take the vaccines because they have emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, not full approval. Government Executive

 

West Virginia lawmakers pas bill relaxing plumbing, electrician requirements

A bill that eliminates state regulatory requirements for crane operators and reduces hourly experience requirements for certified sprinkler fitters, electricians and HVAC technicians has cleared both chambers of the West Virginia Legislature. Crane operators still would be subject to Fed-OSHA requirements. WV Public Broadcasting

 

New Jersey businesses, lawmakers say economy has been mishandled

In a three-hour hearing held Friday, business owners and Republicans said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy continues to move too slowly to reopen the state’s economy. Bruce Groves, a scientist focused on occupational health and safety issues who used to be an inspector for Fed-OSHA, said 80 percent of industries are at low or moderate risk. NJ101.5

 

What employers should know about vaccines in the workplace

Here are some questions employers should consider when deciding whether or not to mandate the vaccine for COVID-19. Press Herald

 

Phone scammer in North Carolina posing as OSHA inspector

In Watauga County, North Carolina, the sheriff warns that a caller has been scamming local citizens by posing as a fire inspector, OSHA inspector or from the FBI. WataugaOnline

 

How to avoid storm repair rip-offs

In the wake of a natural disaster, be careful when approached by “storm chasers” and out-of-town contractors soliciting business. Although not all are scammers, they may lack proper licensing, offer quick fixes or make promises they can’t deliver. WHNT