Apprenticeship in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is the richest area in the Commonwealth when it comes to the Virginia Apprenticeship program. Each year the program continues to be successful with the addition of many sponsors, apprentices and graduates. In fact, there have been several graduates that have given back to their roots by hiring, training and even paying for the education of apprentices in their own companies. Click here to learn more about one of these companies.
Compliance Guidance Available for New Hexavalent Chromium Standards
OSHA has issued guidance http://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_small_entity_comp.pdf to help employers comply with the new hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) requirements for general industry, construction and shipyards. Employers with 20 or more employees are required to comply with all provisions of the new standard, except engineering controls, by November 27, 2006. The start-up date for employers with 19 or fewer employees to comply with all provisions of the new standard, except engineering controls, is May 30, 2007. All employers, regardless of size, must comply with the engineering control requirements of the standard by May 31, 2010. When Cr(VI) exposures exceed the new PEL, after the start-up periods but before the deadline for engineering controls, employees must be protected by respiratory protection.
DOLI Seeks SWAM Vendors
The Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) spends about $500,000.00 annually to acquire goods and services necessary for the agency to accomplish its mission. About 40% of these discretionary dollars is targeted toward qualified small, woman-owned, and minority (SWAM) establishments conducting business in the Commonwealth. Click here to learn more about SWAM establishments and how to become a SWAM business.
DOLI Training Catalog Available Online
The 2006-2007 schedule for Consultation Training courses is available online. Training courses are available to benefit you, your business and your staff. Click here to view the listings and sign up for the courses offered in your area. All courses are free of charge. Educate to keep Virginians safe!
Governor Kaine Appoints Safety and Health Codes Board Members
Governor Timothy M. Kaine recently appointed two new members of the Safety and Health Codes Board and re-appointed three current Board members, all to serve four year terms beginning on June 30, 2006 and ending on July 1, 2010. Click here to learn more about the appointees.
Job Openings Available at DOLI
The Department of Labor and Industry is currently recruiting for the following:
Position No.: 00044
Job Title: Apprenticeship Representative (Program Administration Specialist I)
Recruitment Type: G – General Public Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Position Located in Winchester
Position No.: 00139
Job Title: Programmer/Analyst (Information Technology Specialist II)
Recruitment Type: G – General Public Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Position Located in Richmond/City
Position No.: 00220
Job Title: Web/Graphics Specialist (Information Technology Specialist I)
Recruitment Type: G – General Public Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Position Located in Richmond/City
For more information on the jobs posted visit the DOLI website at www.doli.virginia.gov.
Labor and Employment Law Division’s Wage Collection Investigations
The Department’s Labor and Employment Law Division recently shared its efforts in wage collection. During a one-year period, the Division investigated more than 2000 claims and collected more than $683,000. The service is provided at no cost to those who file claims. The Division also notes that there has been an increase in claims from Hispanic workers, although claims are not tracked by racial or ethnic groups.
The Division’s record has been highlighted in recent articles in the Richmond Times Dispatch. Click here to review Labor and Employment Law information on the Department’s web site.
12th Annual VOSH Conference to Be Held in Roanoke
The 12 th Annual Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Conference will be held June 6 – 8, 2007 at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center in Roanoke, Virginia. Click here for more information.
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New Fact Sheet on Fall Protection Available
Employers and employees involved in working in and around aboveground storage tanks will benefit from a new fact sheet, a product of the Safe Tank Alliance with OSHA. Fall Prevention for Aboveground Storage Tanks describes how to ensure employee safety by recognizing fall hazards, developing prevention priorities, and using protective equipment. In addition, the fact sheet highlights safe climbing practices, specialized training, and other safety and health tips.
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OSHA Unveils New Guidance Document for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu
OSHA Guidance Update on Protecting Employees from Avian Flu Viruses, and other important resource information on the topic, was recently posted to OSHA's Web site to alert employers and employees about the hazards of occupational exposure to avian influenza from infected birds, and provides practical recommendations on ways to avoid infection. This new document updates guidance on avian flu issued by OSHA in 2004. The update provides separate recommendations for poultry employees and those who handle other animals, laboratory employees, healthcare workers, food handlers, travelers, and U.S. employees stationed abroad. The primary focus is on good hygiene, including the use of gloves and hand washing, as well as respiratory protection for those who work with infected animals or individuals.
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Tips to Protect Workers in Cold Environments
Prolonged exposure to freezing or cold temperatures may cause serious health problems such as trench foot, frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme cases, including cold water immersion, exposure can lead to death. Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue and confused behavior. Click here to read more about how to protect workers in cold environments.