August, 13 2014 
In This Issue
Washington Update

Guidelines for Evaluation of U.S. Patients Suspected of Having Ebola Virus Disease


The health update provides guidance to healthcare providers and state and local health departments regarding who should be suspected of having EVD and hospital infection control guidelines including the use of PPE.

You can listen to the CDC's Clinician Outreach and Community Action (COCA) conference call or read a transcript of the call here.

Employers in High-Risk Industries Have a Responsibility to Recognize and Prevent Workplace Hazards.

 

OSHA sent a letter to communication tower employers urging compliance and strict adherence to safety standards and common-sense practices. 
 

OSHA and the Georgia Hispanic Construction Association to Host Safety and Health Fair August 16 in Chamblee, Georgia

 

The fair will feature a variety of free construction-related workshops and classes covering fall protection, trenching, heat illnesses, personal protective equipment, silica and other workplace hazards. Exhibitors and vendors will be on-site to conduct tool and equipment safety demonstrations.
 

When to Call OSHA

 

OSHA requires that employers must try to eliminate or reduce hazards first by making feasible changes in working conditions. Switching to safer chemicals, enclosing processes to trap harmful fumes, or using ventilation systems to clean the air are examples of effective ways to eliminate or minimize risks, rather than just relying on personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, or earplugs. 

CDC Report on OSHA's Review of Heat-Related Enforcement Cases Highlights Need for Acclimatization to Prevent Worker Deaths 


The CDC issued a report on OSHA's review of 20 heat-related enforcement cases from 2012 to 2013. OSHA's analysis, described in the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, suggests that the primary risk factor for heat fatalities is the lack of acclimatization programs. 

The NIOSH-Approved Holiday, N95 Day is September 5

 

N95 Day is a time to recognize the importance of respiratory protection in the workplace and directs people to the resources available to help make educated decisions when selecting and wearing a respirator.
 

NIOSH Publication Touts Embedded Fall Prevention Features
 

A new workplace design solutions publication from NIOSH encourages building owners and operators to take steps during retrofits, renovations, or new construction that will prevent falls from heights. 
 

NIOSH Report Offers Tips on Conducting Ergonomic Assessments
 

The purpose of the document is to help EHS practitioners assess working posture for the prevention and control of occupational musculoskeletal disorders.
 

Please feel free to send me any pertinent information you would like to share in the MID, such as company events and important announcements. Be sure to let me know if you have any feedback via email: Lbaugh@safetyequipment.org

For more information on policy related questions please contact Dan Glucksman via email or at 703-525-1695.

Sincerely,

Lydia Baugh
Communications Director/ MID Editor
International Safety Equipment Association
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