The October 14 edition of OSHA’s QuickTakes newsletter brings a wide-ranging set of updates for safety professionals, from new policy initiatives to practical reminders for the workplace. Leading the news is a new alliance between OSHA, ASSP, AIHA, NSC, and the Construction Safety Research Alliance focused on preventing serious injuries and fatalities. This issue also covers new guidance on opioid overdose preparedness, $10.2 million in Susan Harwood training grants, and lessons learned from a fatal confined space incident. Rounding things out are October awareness events, a leadership update, and refreshers on fire safety, forklift training, and whistleblower protections.
New Alliance Focused on Preventing Serious Injuries and Fatalities (SIFs)
OSHA has joined the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), National Safety Council (NSC), and the Construction Safety Research Alliance (CSRA) in a new alliance dedicated to preventing serious injuries and fatalities. The organizations will collaborate on awareness campaigns, training resources, and best practices to help employers identify and control hazards with the highest potential for life-altering injuries or fatalities.
Opioid Overdose Preparedness in the Workplace
OSHA released a new fact sheet, Opioid Overdose Rescue with Reversal Medications, to help employers recognize and respond to opioid-related emergencies. Key recommendations include:
- Maintaining access to FDA-approved overdose reversal medications such as naloxone.
- Storing overdose kits in visible and accessible locations.
- Training employees to recognize overdose symptoms.
- Preparing workers to respond effectively while awaiting emergency services.
OSHA Awards $10.2 Million in Safety Training Grants
Through the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program, OSHA awarded approximately $10.2 million to 67 nonprofit organizations nationwide. The funding supports worker safety education, hazard recognition training, and development of training materials, with a focus on small businesses and high-risk industries.
October Safety Awareness Events
- Fire Prevention Month
- Protect Your Hearing Month
- Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill – October 15
- Fire Safety in the Workplace Webinar – October 20
- Respirable Crystalline Silica in Construction Webinar – October 20
Fire Safety Reminder
OSHA emphasized the importance of maintaining and practicing workplace fire protection and evacuation plans. Employers should ensure workers understand emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and assigned responsibilities in case of a fire.
Confined Space Safety Lessons Learned
Following a fatal confined space incident involving two workers in Alaska, OSHA is reminding employers to:
- Evaluate and test confined spaces before entry.
- Control atmospheric and physical hazards.
- Provide required training.
- Establish effective rescue procedures before work begins.
Employee Rights and Whistleblower Protections
OSHA highlighted a recent whistleblower case involving an aircraft mechanic who reported aviation safety concerns. The case reinforces workers’ rights to report workplace hazards without fear of retaliation.
Forklift Training Requirements
OSHA reminds employers and workers that powered industrial truck (forklift) operators must complete required training, practical demonstrations, and workplace evaluations before operating equipment. Workers under age 18 may not legally operate forklifts.
OSHA Leadership Update
Prentice Cline has been appointed OSHA’s new career Deputy Assistant Secretary, bringing extensive experience in enforcement, compliance assistance, and workplace safety policy.
Safety Culture Recognition
OxyChem’s Convent, Louisiana facility celebrated 35 years as an OSHA Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) Star site, demonstrating long-term commitment to safety excellence and continuous improvement.
Key Takeaway
The October OSHA QuickTakes newsletter highlights a strong focus on preventing serious injuries and fatalities, strengthening workplace emergency preparedness, expanding safety training opportunities, and reinforcing core safety practices such as confined space entry, fire prevention, and employee reporting protections.
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