Baltimore gas explosion kills one, injures six
A gas explosion destroyed homes in northwest Baltimore, killing one person and seriously injuring at least six others Monday morning. The exact cause of the explosion is under investigation. Many Baltimore-area gas lines are in serious need of repair, a project that could take BGE at least two decades to complete. Baltimore Sun
Meatpacking employees say they were fired after COVID-19 safety complaints
A meat processing company is facing accusations it fired employees in Franklin, Wisconsin late last month after some complained about an absence of COVID-19 safety measures. Most reportedly were told they were terminated because the Social Security Administration had informed their employer their Social Security numbers and names did not match the agency’s records. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Attorneys discuss telework and OSHA-compliance
To what extent must employers ensure their home-based employees are working in a safe environment? It depends on the type of remote work, according to two attorneys with Foley & Lardner LLP. National Law Review
Utility worker fatally struck by vehicle in Charlotte
A 59-year-old utility worker was killed after being struck by a vehicle in southwest Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday morning as he was marking underground utilities in the left lane with his back facing approaching traffic. The utility company vehicle was parked in a nearby business driveway and gave no warning for approaching vehicles, according to police. WCNC (Charlotte) [with video]
Ten months after New Orleans hotel collapse, bodies remain in rubble
Authorities have been working to remove the body of a two construction workers since the Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans collapsed last October, but safety concerns and the instability of the building have remained an issue. A third victim of the collapse has been removed. The brother of one of the victims says the delay in recovering the body has caused the family great stress. KXXV
How to prepare for your return to the office
Fed-OSHA has suggested employers develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan, as well as implement basic preventive measures, like promoting frequent hand-washing and telling employees to stay home if they are sick. With the end of summer approaching, here’s what to take into consideration as you figure out your return to the office. New York Times
Three Las Vegas Strip stores cited for COVID-19 noncompliance
Nevada OSHA has cited and fined three stores at Fashion Show Mall on the Las Vegas Strip for COVID-19 noncompliance, although the agency didn’t specify what violations took place at the stores. Officials report that overall more than 5,400 businesses have been visited by state officials, with 88 percent total compliance since observations started. KVVU (Las Vegas)