Respiratory


Effikal Recalls Gas Vent Dampers Due to Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Effikal LLC, of Orion, Mich., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, has announced a voluntary recall of its Automatic Gas Vent Dampers.

Health Report Lists 'Deadly Dozen' Potential-Impact Pathogens

Health experts from the Wildlife Conservation Society has released a report that lists 12 pathogens that could spread into new regions as a result of climate change, with potential impacts to both human and wildlife health and global economies.

USFA Releases New Technical Report

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has released a new technical report titled "Chemical Fire in Apex, North Carolina." This report examines the response of the Apex Fire Department, the value of pre-planning efforts, and the impact of a well coordinated response in the worst of conditions.

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Harvard Journal Stresses Importance of Flu Prevention, Treatment

According to the report, in a typical year about 36,000 die from influenza infection.

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FDA Clears New H5N1 Test

Developed by CDC, the Human Influenza Virus Real-Time RT-PCR Detection and Characterization Panel can differentiate between seasonal and novel influenza. HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt calls it "a significant achievement for public health surveillance."

DOL Grants Nearly $15.9 Million to Aid Texas' Recovery from Ike

The funds, awarded to the Texas Workforce Commission, will be used to provide temporary employment on projects for the cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and lands within the affected communities.

DHS Puts Up $29 Million to Prevent an Attack in NYC Metro Area

"This funding will help the New York metropolitan area to acquire equipment, training, and support to further our mission of preventing dangerous radiological and nuclear materials from entering a high-risk urban area."

Liquid Propellant Plant Fined $424,000 for Process Management Deficiencies

Charges of six willful and 10 serious citations follow a March 2008 explosion that caused serious injuries to two employees at the facility in Spooner, Wis.



NIOSH Issues Guidance for Controlling Hazardous Dust During Tuckpointing

The crystalline silica dust released during tuckpointing operations is very hard to control. The dust may be carried throughout the workplace. When workers use compressed air to clean their clothes, tools, and equipment, even more dust is added to the air.

More than 305 IH, EHS Professionals Expected at PCIH 2008

Industrial hygienists and environmental health and safety professionals will gather in Tampa, Fla., for the Professional Conference on Industrial Hygiene (PCIH), November 8–11. PCIH will host more than 350 colleagues who want to stay current with trends, find solutions to everyday issues, and network with peers.

Allergy Expert Offers Advice to Flood Victims

H. James Wedner, M.D., professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Allergy and Immunology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, said after floodwaters recede, damp homes and businesses are fertile grounds for mold growth.

OSHA Sets Oct. 6 Hearing on Per-Employee Citation Rule

Contractors say the proposal, which OSHA issued to clarify that certain respiratory and training standards apply on a per-employee basis, is a threat. And the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's comments predict a court will strike it down.

New Mine Rescue Team Rule Published, Effective Nov. 14

Once the rule is in effect, teams must have twice as many gas detectors and carry more oxygen than is currently required.

Howard Discusses Nanotechnology in Public TV Segment

In the show, the former NIOSH director and other government representatives discuss issues relating to the health and safety implications of nanotechnology.

NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages

Construction and renovation projects in office settings can adversely affect building occupants by the release of airborne particulates, biological contaminants, and gases. Careful planning for IEQ and the prevention of exposure during these activities is essential.

Journal Examines Diacetyl Exposures, Sampling, Controls

The November issue of JOEH, published by AIHA and ACGIH, includes a study by Colorado researchers and two NIOSH papers.

New ANSI Standard Addresses HVAC Inspection, Maintenance

"Consistent maintenance ensures that energy efficiency remains at design levels," said Robert Baker, chair of the committee that wrote the standard.

PHMSA Adjusts List of Hazmats That Require Security Plans

The list is being pared to substances that stakeholders agree pose a significant security threat in transportation -- meaning automobile batteries and paints won't require security plans, for instance.

Montreal Respiratory Training Seminar Set for Oct. 6

The event covers emergency response and health care issues and will include an update from the International Society for Respiratory Protection's conference starting Sunday in Dublin, Ireland.

NY Mayor Signs New Construction Safety Laws, Issues 9/11 Health Report

One piece of legislation signed last week requires site safety managers to include in their plans a statement that workers have successfully completed a 10-hour OSHA course on construction safety and health within five years of working on the site.

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