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Analysis Finds Workforce Drug Positivity at Highest Rate in a Decade

Analysis Finds Workforce Drug Positivity at Highest Rate in a Decade

The national positivity rate for the combined American workforce remained at 4.2 percent in 2017, the same rate as 2016 but an increase over the 3.5 percent positivity rate from 2012, a 30-year low. Quest Diagnostics' analysis also suggests changing patterns of drug use, with cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana positivity rising in some areas of the United States and prescription opiate positivity rates declining nationally.

ASTM Develops Standard for General Aviation Ice Detectors

ASTM reported that the new F3310 standard could be useful to ice detector manufacturers and aircraft pilots.

NHTSA Pleads for Airbag Fix on Older Ford, Mazda Trucks

According to the manufacturers, 49.2 percent of the 33,320 impacted 2006 Ford Rangers have been repaired and 58 percent of the 2,205 impacted Mazda B-Series trucks have been fixed.



ANSI Launches Accreditation Program for EPA Formaldehyde Testing Rule

ANSI is one of four accreditation bodies recognized by EPA to provide accreditation services under the final rule, which is intended to reduce exposure to formaldehyde emissions from certain wood products produced domestically or imported into the United States.

FDA: U.S. Experiencing EpiPen Shortage

The FDA said the spot shortages don't mean patients cannot obtain EpiPens or generics, but they may have to look harder or use a different brand.

Record Number of Unused Pills Collected in Drug Take Back Day

The DEA was able to collect and destroy nearly one million pounds—almost 475 tons—of potentially dangerous prescription medications. Since the fall of 2010, the DEA has collected a total of 9,964,714 pounds of prescription drugs, or 4,982 tons.

Home Fire Sprinkler Day Set for May 19

Advocates say legislative barriers and a "general unawareness of this technology" have prevented fire sprinklers' use in new homes, something Home Fire Sprinkler Day is intended to change.

Cal/OSHA Issues High Heat Warning

The agency's advisory urges employers with outdoor workers to protect them from succumbing to heat illnesses as parts of Southern California are expected to top 100 degrees into next week.

OSHA Cites Companies After Fatal Pipeline Fire

OSHA investigators concluded flammable vapors or gases from a vacuum truck leaked, igniting the pipeline.

2018 SHRM Conference Includes Sessions on Rx Overuse, Workplace Depression

The June 17-20 conference will include more than 230 concurrent sessions on topics such as prescription drug overuse, workplace depression, bullying and harassment, workplace violence, health care reform, financial wellness for young workers, and more.

Random Drug Screening Urged for FECA Program Patients

During a Capitol Hill hearing May 8 on the opioid epidemic's implications for the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, one witness said the program must build an approach that includes random screening for all patients who are prescribed opioids.

Texas, Feds Ask the Public to Get Ready for Hurricanes

"Hurricane season is unpredictable, and as we saw last year with Hurricane Harvey, these powerful storms can cause dangerous conditions and leave behind major devastation," said Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. "By preparing ahead of time, we can help ensure our state is ready when natural disasters strike.

OSHA Cites Pennsylvania Manufacturer

OSHA cited the manufacturer of dog treats for 19 violations, including failing to implement lockout/tagout procedures, blocking electrical panels, failing to develop a hazard communication program, and exposing workers to confined space, machine guarding, and electrical hazards.

Hit-and-Run Crashes, Deaths on the Rise: AAA Foundation

"Hit-and-run crashes in the United States are trending in the wrong direction," said Dr. David Yang, executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "Our analysis shows that hit-and-run crashes are a growing traffic safety challenge, and the AAA Foundation would like to work with all stakeholders to help curtail this problem."

Washington L&I Sponsoring Two Labor Law Seminars

The training on state and federal labor law training will be offered in Spanish and English in Yakima on May 8 and in Wenatchee on May 10. They are free, half-day forums covering wage and hour requirements, workplace safety and health regulations, transportation, housing, workers' compensation claims, and more.

Product Showcase

  • AirChek Connect Sampling Pump

    Stay connected to your sampling with the SKC AirChek® Connect Sampling Pump! With its Bluetooth connection to PC and mobile devices, you can monitor AirChek Connect pump operation without disrupting workflow. SKC designed AirChek Connect specifically for all OEHS professionals to ensure accurate, reliable flows from 5 to 5000 ml/min and extreme ease of use. AirChek Connect offers easy touch screen operation and flexibility. It is quality built to serve you and the workers you protect. Ask about special pricing and a demo at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

  • NoiseCHEK Personal Noise Dosimeter

    SKC NoiseCHEK is the easiest-to-use dosimeter available! Designed specifically for OEHS professionals, SKC NoiseCHEK offers the easiest operation and accurate noise measurements. Everything you need is right in your palm. Pair Bluetooth models to your mobile devices and monitor workers remotely with the SmartWave dB app without interrupting workflow. Careful design features like a locking windscreen, sturdy clip, large front-lit display, bright status LEDs, and more make NoiseCHEK the top choice in noise dosimeters. Demo NoiseCHEK at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

  • Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

    Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. Read More

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