On Friday, April 2, 2010, the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued guidelines that consumers replace "all possible problem drywall; all electrical components and wiring, including outlets, switches and circuit breakers; all gas service piping; fire suppression sprinkler systems; and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms." Click here to learn more.

OSHA will host informal public hearings on the proposal to align the agency's hazard communication standard with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. The proposed rule will improve the consistency and effectiveness of hazard communications and reduce workers' chemical-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities. The first hearing will occur March 2 at Labor Department headquarters in Washington, D.C. Additional hearings will occur March 31 in Pittsburgh and April 13 in Los Angeles. Locations for these hearings will be provided at a later date. Read the Federal Register notice for details.

 

In light of recent frigid temperatures, OSHA is reminding workers and employers, whose work is concentrated outside, to take the necessary precautions to prevent cold-related injuries and illnesses. OSHA's "Cold Stress Pocket Card" (English/Spanish) provides recommendations on protecting workers in cold environments. For example, take frequent short breaks in warm dry shelters to allow the body to warm up. Electronic copies can be downloaded from the agency's publications page, or printed copies can be ordered online or by calling (202) 693-1888.