Washington — An update to OSHA’s standard on hazard communication is undergoing a final review, according to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs website.

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency intends to issue a proposed rule that would ban the use of the toxic chemical trichloroethylene.

Washington — Two federal safety agencies are urging owners of certain “nurse” tanks used to transport anhydrous ammonia to check the tanks for potential “catastrophic failure.”

Washington — By steadily increasing investigative staff and restructuring tasks, the Chemical Safety Board is “getting close to at least hitting on all cylinders,” Chair Steve Owens said during a July 25 public meeting.

Washington – OSHA’s latest National Emphasis Program focuses on isocyanates, a family of chemicals used in a wide range of materials, including paints, varnishes and building insulation.

Missoula, MT – Salon workers are frequently exposed to products that contain harmful chemicals linked to conditions such as cancer, reproductive issues and asthma, concludes a new report from environmental health advocacy group Women’s Voices for the Earth.

Washington – NIOSH is looking for companies that use spray polyurethane foam to participate in a study about the health effects of occupational exposure to flame retardants.

Skin diseases are the second most common type of occupational illness, with more than 13 million workers potentially exposed to chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin.

Durham, NC – Workers exposed to oil dispersants during cleanup of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil rig disaster are likely to experience respiratory issues and other health problems, according to a new study from the National Institutes of Health.

Working in the hot summer sun can cause more than just discomfort. Serious medical conditions such as dehydration, fainting and heat stroke can send many workers to the hospital – and can even prove fatal in some cases.

Shoveling and snowblowing can be potentially dangerous to your health if not performed properly

Superficial frostbite, in which the skin feels cold and numb. The surface of the skin will have a white waxy look, with grayish-yellow patches in affected areas.

Those working outdoors in the summer – or working indoors in hot environments such as bakeries, laundries and manufacturing plants – can be at risk of a number of heat-induced disorders.

Working outside in the winter exposes employees to a number of hazards, including the risk of weather-related conditions such as frostbite. Cold weather can affect the body's senses, altering the ability to see, smell and feel, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

If you work outside, do so safely and know your body’s limits.

A lightning strike happens faster than the blink of an eye. And just that quickly, lives can be changed.