In April 2022, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued the first national emphasis program (NEP) addressing outdoor and indoor heat-related hazards. AGC worked with the agency to issue a series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) clarifying contractors’ obligations under the NEP to better assist members with effectively protecting workers from hazards related to heat, while also avoiding citations during any enforcement proceedings. The FAQs offer clearer guidance regarding program elements and policies that OSHA will deem effective at protecting workers from heat related hazards. Issues addressed include availability and access to water, measures for providing shade, effective training methods and topics covered, among others.
AGC of America is now accepting speaking proposals for the Construction Safety & Health Conference taking place January 10-12, 2024, in Newport Beach, CA. This event is designed for emerging to senior-level management professionals who work in any of the commercial construction markets. All educational sessions should be targeted towards these attendees and should involve topics that reflect current and emerging issues in construction safety, health, and/or the environment.
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) is seeking input on the use of leading indicators in order to develop a resource that shares best practices to improve workplace safety and health. Leading indicators are proactive, preventive measures that can provide insight on the effectiveness of safety and health activities, improve identification/elimination/control of risks, and reduce incidents and injuries. Examples of leading indicators include, number of employees trained in hazard identification, percentage of trainings completed, etc.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has notified the Small Business Administration (SBA) that it intends to convene a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) panel, also known as a “SBREFA” panel, on a possible heat standard in the next sixty (60) days - on or about August 21, 2023.
The purpose of this virtual, quarterly townhall is to communicate key safety and health issues and challenges, as well as discuss enforcement, regulatory, and outreach activities at the national and local levels. Open to all AGC members and Chapters, the meeting also provides an opportunity for industry professionals from various sectors to share best practices, discuss emerging safety trends, and collaborate on ways to improve safety across the entire construction industry. Register HERE to join us on June 22, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM for the inaugural meeting.
Kevin Cannon, CSP, ARM, Senior Director of Safety, Health, & Risk Management