Overdose deaths and opioid use have risen significantly in the United States, with research indicating that the risk of opioid use and overdose fatality is higher in construction than in other industries. With the March 2023 Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of the first over-the counter opioid-reversal drug Naloxone nasal spray, particularly the nasal-spray brand name Narcan, it is becoming more widely available and prevalent on construction sites.
On August 30, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a proposal to amend its regulation authorizing which individuals can serve as representatives of employees and employers during the physical inspection of a workplace. OSHA’s proposed amendment will revise the language to authorize participation by third parties who are not employed by the employer. Historically, these individuals have provided subject matter expertise specific to the focus of the inspections, such as industrial hygienists or engineers, on behalf of OSHA or the employer. If the proposal is finalized in its current form, these individuals could potentially include worker advocacy and environmental groups, union organizers, and community activists who may seize on opportunities to advance agendas unrelated to workplace safety.
Help Us Generate a Comprehensive Outlook for 2024 by Taking the Survey Each year around this time, Â鶹´«Ã½ asks you – our members – to predict what next year will be like for your business. Â鶹´«Ã½ has partnered with Sage to prepare questions that focus on expectations for market performance, hiring, labor market conditions, etc. Please take a moment to complete the survey here. Â鶹´«Ã½ of America will use the survey results to help make the case with elected and appointed officials in support of key member priorities. The more people who complete the survey by Thursday, December 7, the more effective the results will be in supporting our work on your behalf.
Industry coalition provides flowchart depicting the process
Â鶹´«Ã½ is pleased to announce that its new Climate Change Working Group will meet virtually for the first time on Oct. 30th. The working group will meet routinely to ensure Â鶹´«Ã½ is focusing on the most relevant developments in this area and providing the most appropriate and effective resources for member companies.