4 summaries

1) https://www.osha.gov/
US Labor Department announces final rule to improve U.S. workers' protection from the dangers of 'respirable' silica dust
Updated rule amends silica exposure regulations for first time since 1971 For the first time since 1971, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration amended silica exposure regulations. This amendment will improve workers’ protection against respirable silica dust while limiting the exposure to respirable crystalline silica. More than 600 lives annually will be saved, 900 or more cases of silicosis will be prevented, and net benefits of $7.7 billion per year will result. The final rule will also decrease lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in workers. This rule hopes to modernize worker protection in feasible and economical ways. About 4.6 million workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica. The rule consists of two standards: one written for construction and the other for general industry and maritime. Construction standards for most requirements have until June 23, 2017 and general industry and maritime have until June 23, 2018. 2) https://www.ftc.gov/
FTC Signs Memorandum of Understanding With Canadian Agency To Strengthen Cooperation on Do Not Call, Spam Enforcement

In order to strengthen cross-border Do Not Call and anti-spam enforcement cooperation, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The MOU will enhance cooperation by encouraging the continued and expanded information exchange between U.S. and Canadian authorities to combat illegal telemarketing and spam. Also, the MOU encourages assistance, staff exchange, and policy-related initiatives. The commission vote in favor to sign the MOU was 4-0. Together both agencies work to promote confidentiality, competition, and protect and educate consumers.

3) http://www.cpsc.gov/
Raynor Recalls Office Chairs Due to Fall Hazard

The Raynor Office Chair: Eurotech Lume office chairs was recalled February 18, 2016. The recall was issued on account of the possible fall hazard due to the possibility of the chair seat detaching. The report indicates about 1,200 units with a manufacturing date between 14/10/08 and 15/10/16. No incidents or injuries were reported but consumers should stop using the product and contact Raynor to receive a full refund. Chairs were sold at Davies Office in New York and Office Furniture Depot stores in New Jersey and by other independent distributors from January 2015 through November 2015 of around $300. Importer and distributor was Raynor Marketing, LTD, of West Hempstead, N.Y. and the product was manufactured in China. 4) http://www.nhtsa.gov/
U.S. Department of Transportation issues notice of proposed rulemaking to facilitate fuel cell, hybrid vehicles The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a notice to update electrical safety requirements for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and “mild hybrid” vehicles. The proposal increased efforts, fuel efficiency, and energy security while also fostering technological innovation. NPRM proposed adding an optional method for post-crash electrical safety; expand performance requirements by adopting normal vehicle operation requirements specified in United Nations Global Technical Regulations, and an optional method of meeting electrical isolation requirements allowing fuel cell vehicles to be offered for sale in the U.S. The proposed updates to FMVSS No. 305 will provide wider use and options for building safety into electric and fuel-cell cars and allow automakers to develop and sell more fuel-efficient vehicles.