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TAG GROUP: Health & Safety

Weekly Poll (298)

After an analysis revealed that over a third of the water that runs through England and Wales has medium or high-risk levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, the Royal Society of Chemistry asked the U.K. government to reassess current drinking water standards. Do you believe drinking water standards should be reassessed in the United States as well?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposal to ban all uses of trichloroethylene to protect against serious health risks for workers. Do you believe this ban will be effective in protecting workers from toxic chemicals?

The National Energy Technology Laboratory has announced a new development in advanced sensors for the detection and prediction of corrosion in natural gas pipelines, using either optical fiber-based or passive wireless sensing technology. Should this technology be adapted for other sites that are at risk for a gas leak?

The Miami-Dade County Health Committee in Florida moved legislation forward for a heat standard for outdoor workers, requiring construction and agriculture companies with five or more employees to provide 10-minute breaks in the shade every two hours on days when the heat index hits 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Do you believe this will be effective in protecting construction workers in warm conditions?

A new rule proposed by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration will require regulator stations to be designed with secondary pressure relief valves. Do you believe this rule will provide appropriate safety for the millions of miles of gas distribution pipelines?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a framework that takes a planned approach to review new and new uses of PFAS to ensure that they are extensively evaluated within 90 days to prevent the chemicals to enter into commerce. Do you believe this review time is enough to prevent PFAS from harming human health and the environment?

Scientists from Rutgers University devised a method for creating coatings of biologically active materials using the industrial spray-coating process electrospray deposition, which could lead into a new era of transdermal medication. Do you believe the medical and healthcare industry will adapt spray-coating technology on a national scale?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced that they have issued a proposal that could improve the accuracy of reported greenhouse gas emissions such as methane and are consistent with the Methane Emissions Reduction Program. Do you believe stricter reporting on GHG data and emissions sources will improve decarbonization?

A team from the New Jersey Institute of Technology is assessing the seismic response of high-performance fiber-reinforced cementitious composites to better protect buildings from earthquakes. Should reinforced buildings be used to test for better protection against other environmental disasters, such as flooding?

The U.S. Geological Survey reported that at least 45% of the nation’s tap water is estimated to have one of more types of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), after testing was completed for the presence of 32 different types. Should substantial funding be set aside to address tap water safety?

After the incident of lead paint chips falling from the Tobin Bridge into nearby yards, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation said that its contractor would begin vacuuming the paint chips and safely disposing of them, starting in parking lots and then moving to yards, sidewalks and other areas under the bridge. Do you believe enough is being done to address residents’ concerns about the lead paint?

In June, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule to update the Toxics Release Inventory chemicals list to identify nine additional per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) subject to reporting requirements. Do you believe this inventory is now fully comprehensive?

Do you expect your company to seriously consider autonomous blasting equipment in the near future in order to cut down on the danger to blasting workers?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed risk management ban on most uses of perchloroethylene. Do you believe perchloroethylene presents enough of a health risk that it should be banned?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released proposed amendments that eliminates eligibility for exemptions from the full safety review process for new per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and other persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chemicals to improve efficiency. Do you believe this amendment is worth the improve efficiency?

A previously repealed executive order to mandate styles in the design of federal buildings is now returning to Congress. Do you believe it is appropriate to mandate federal building design?

The National Transportation Safety Board announced new recommended actions for bridge maintenance for bridges made of uncoated weathering steel, which call for authorities to review inspection reports and identify incomplete follow-up actions. Do you believe these recommended actions are drastic enough to fortify bridges?

New research from Stanford University suggests that one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded in Alberta, Canada, was caused by wastewater injected underground by oil and gas operators. Do you believe large-scale oil and gas operations should be paused to investigate the potential of further natural disasters?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced that it has begun a National Emphasis Program to prevent falls in the construction industry. Would you like to see OSHA put heavy focus on safety in other aspects of the construction industry?

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration issued a notice of proposed rulemaking, with provisions that include hazard communication and the incorporation by reference of certain documents, to improve safety standards. Do you believe these changes will be effective?

The University of Buffalo is reportedly preparing for what is being called the largest-ever United States earthquake test of a brick and mortar building, with hopes of making structures more earthquake-resistant. Should natural disaster testing like this become more commonplace across the country?

Last month, a resolution that targeted blocking the updated “waters of the United States” rule, which aimed to establish a durable definition of navigable waters, was vetoed. Given the federal government’s current ability to define the WOTUS by regulation, do you believe this resolution should have been passed?

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is sending $190.7 million in funding to a flood risk management project in Milton, West Virginia. Should research and funding be utilized nationwide to prepare for and prevent the results of natural disasters?

The European Commission released two proposed directives to improve the protection of workers from health risks linked to exposure to lead and diisocyanates. The first-ever limit values for diisocyanates, do you believe other countries should adopt these limits?

The Connecticut Department of Transportation believes extreme temperature swings have caused a sudden release of lead-based paint chips on bridges across the state. Do you believe this is a problem that will become widespread in other states?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposal to strengthen national ambient air quality standards for fine particles, or soot, to protect communities from pollution from sources such as construction sites, unpaved roads, fields, smokestacks or fires. Do you believe the proposed new standards offer enough protection against these fine particles?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recently awarded a $125,000 grant for the development of a standardized method to characterize the release of nanoparticle-based coatings from various surfaces. Do you believe nanoparticle-based coatings will become more utilized the industry?

The Court of Justice of the European Union recently annulled the classification of titanium dioxide, deciding that the substance is should not be labeled as carcinogenic. Do you agree with this decision to annul the regulation?

Last month, the Buy America requirements for construction materials took effect, with the Department of Transportation proposing two new partial waivers for projects. Do you believe these proposed waivers accurately address concerns from contractors and associations?

Do you expect your company to seriously consider autonomous blasting equipment in the near future in order to cut down on the danger to blasting workers?

A recent report indicated that death rates for the construction industry have remained unchanged for 10 years, despite efforts made by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Do you believe additional action is needed to lower this rate?

Chicago City Council recently passed its 2022 Energy Transformation Code, making the city one of the first major U.S. cities and the first city in Illinois to adopt and exceed the 2021 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. Do you think other cities will follow suit for decarbonization?

Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on classifying employees and independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Do you believe this proposed rule would help prevent misclassification of workers?

The EPA recently awarded a $1 million research grant to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to improve wastewater monitoring for the spread of infectious diseases to address current and future pandemics. Do you think this method will prove to be a faster indicator of an infected community versus current individual testing methods?

Eastern Michigan University was recently awarded a U.S. patent for their invention of Organic-Inorganic Hybrid (OIH) coating methods. Do you believe this could potentially replace hazardous heavy metals in the metal coating industry?

A cleaning and inspection tool development led by Australian energy company Woodside now offers remote inspection of equipment on offshore platforms. Do you believe the human-sized robot inspection system will be beneficial in regard to worker safety?

Experts have recently expressed concern over the pipes planned for the long-delayed Mountain Valley Pipeline, including coating integrity, corrosion and safety. According to reports, the pipes have been sitting above ground with coating dates from 2017. Do you believe that the coating integrity should be a cause for concern?

An Australian company recently completed a trial run of its “glow-in-the-dark” highway lines on a portion of road in Victoria. Do you think this photoluminescent technology should be implemented in other locations around the world?

Last month, the contractor working on the Harbor Bridge in Corpus Christi, Texas, submitted potential solutions to design concerns on the project. Do you believe the proposed design changes will be sufficient to address the structural concerns?

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has recently recommended approving the surrender of the Klamath River Dam license in California, including its decommission and removal. Do you agree with the recommendation?

Scientists from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have recently invented a clear fireproof coating designed to protect wood surfaces and materials. Once licensed, do you think this coating will become widely used in timber buildings?

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration recently announced a final rule to strengthen the safety and environmental protection of more than 300,000 miles of onshore gas transmission pipelines. Do you believe these changes will further prevent tragedies like the San Bruno pipeline explosion in 2010?

The Canadian government recently published a renewed version of its Federal Agenda regarding volatile organic compound (VOC) controls on industry products. Do you believe the new actions will improve air quality in the country?

Residents surrounding the Bromley Wastewater Treatment Plant in New Zealand recently reported discoloration and other paint issues on their homes and properties. Do you think that the city council should offer free clean-up for affected residents?

The City of Los Angeles recently applied its first-ever cool pavement coating in Boyle Heights as part of a $1 million project to combat the heat and address heat-related illness and death. Do you believe that this technology will be adopted by other cities?

At the end of June, the Supreme Court ruled that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not have the authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. Do you agree with the ruling?

The City of Portland, Oregon, recently announced the approval of recommendations to add Concrete Embodied Carbon Threshold requirements for city construction projects. Do you think these requirements should be adopted in other states?

Last month, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $520 million in funding to better protect low-income households from lead-based paint and other home health and safety hazards. Do you think this funding will successfully promote reduced lead exposure and negative health effects?

The new Clean Hull Initiative calls on regulators, shipping companies, ports, coatings manufacturers, technology and service providers, as well as academic and research institutions to focus on biofouling management. Do you believe there should be a worldwide regulation for proactive hull cleaning?

A recent report by the Beacon Hill Institute points out that a rule proposed by the Department of Labor makes the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts wage determination process more inaccurate, inflationary and biased. Do you think that the rule should be adopted?

Researchers from Tomsk State University have recently developed a new paint, Premia, designed to neutralize common pathogens and reduce nosocomial infections. Do you believe that, if certified, this paint will be more widely used?

Researchers from Northwestern University have developed a sponge capable of cleaning up oil, microplastics and phosphate from polluted waterways. While studies have shown that paint flakes largely contribute to microplastic particles in the ocean, do you believe this technology is worth pursuing?

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development recently released a report on the commercial availability and current uses of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances found in various paints, coatings and varnishes, recommending further work is needed to understand the health and environmental risks. Do you believe enough is being done to better protect painters from these substances?

For the first time in 40 years, the U.S. Department of Labor is proposing a rulemaking for the Davis-Bacon Act and Davis-Bacon and Related Acts to speed up prevailing wage updates, create several efficiencies in the current system and ensure that prevailing wage rates keep up with actual wages. Do you agree with the proposed changes?

A recent study published by the Swiss-based Environmental Action has found that paint accounts for 58% of microplastics in the world’s oceans and waterways. Do you believe the push for green coatings could be a solution to this issue?

A recent request to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency asked the agency to reconsider its final risk evaluation regarding C.I. Pigment Violet 29. The shared belief between the requesters is that hazards associated with PV29 should be identified at the manufacturer level and that facilities use OSHA-regulated safety measures to reduce risks of exposure. Do you believe that the EPA’s rulemaking should remain in effect?

An unfinished apartment complex in Oklahoma City was recently destroyed after its roof caught fire. Reports indicate that the roof’s Thermoplastic Polyolefin material, which is resistant to water, contributed to the severity of the blaze. Do you think these types of materials should be reviewed for better fire protection?

New Florida legislation seeks to require mandatory building inspections for all apartment and condo buildings taller than three stories and larger than 3,500 square feet. The inspections would be required once a building is 30-years-old and every 10 years after. Do you believe this time frame for inspections is reasonable?

In 2021, OSHA reached a settlement including an agreement to make changes to its communication about beryllium. Do you believe OSHA communication regarding its beryllium rules was not clear enough at the time?

A new initiative from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration prioritizes heat-related interventions on days when the heat index exceeds 80 F. Do you believe this threshold temperature is low enough?

According to the White House, approximately 10 million American households are served by a lead service line or pipe. Part of the bipartisan infrastructure law, the Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan, has been put into place to remove all lead lines and pipes within the next 10 years. Do you believe this can be accomplished within the next decade?

At the beginning of November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a notice announcing its plan to hold property management companies responsible for lead-based paint safety requirements. Do you believe this notice provides enough incentive to see significant changes in lead-based paint safety practices?

In response to the increase in construction-related fatalities, more frequent inspections in New York City resulted in over 3,600 violations from June to October. Do you believe increased inspections are enough to police and prevent construction accidents?

With fall protection violations making the list of most frequently cited standards for the past decade, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration will be making random weekend safety inspections of construction sites in Colorado. Do you believe these surprise inspection measures should be adopted nationwide?

As France continues to work toward the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral, it has been reported that the restoration cannot begin until the melted scaffolding is dismantled piece-by-piece to avoid a collapse that would put other parts of the building in jeopardy. Despite this setback, along with delays due to COVID-19, President Emmanuel Macron wants the restoration of Notre Dame to be completed in time for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Do you believe this is a viable timeline?

Researchers from the Center for Environmental Health Engineering at Arizona State University’s Biodesign Institute developed a new approach to monitoring regional levels of SARS-CoV-2 by looking at wastewater. This approach, known as wastewater-based epidemiology, sees researchers analyzing sewage samples for levels of coronavirus infection. Do you believe this approach should be used nationally to monitor local levels of COVID-19 infection?

Following an inspection sweep in New York City earlier this year, the Department of Buildings shut down 322 construction sites due to hazardous conditions and issued more than 1,129 violations for safety issues and non-compliance issues. Do you think these types of sweeps are beneficial for industry safety?

Recently, Wyoming announced its intentions to sue other states blocking its exports of coal—an issue that’s resulting in the shutdown of its coal-fired power plants. Do you think it’ll be the only state to send such a strong message?

Recently, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health released the Worker Well-Being Questionnaire, a survey intended to help researchers, employers, workers, practitioners and policymakers understand workers’ health and target interventions to improve well-being. Do you think the free tool will prove beneficial to the industry?

A study recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine associated paint-stripping chemical methylene chloride to more deaths than what has previously been acknowledged by the Environmental Protection Agency. With this information in mind, do you feel the chemical should have been fully banned by the Agency back in June 2020?

The National Association of Home Builders, along with industry partners, hosted a COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Week in Construction last month. Do you think the industry could use more like-events to encourage construction professionals to get vaccinated?

For the first time in the agency’s history, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently completed a climate change review. Do you think more projects will be required to undergo this type of review?

What factor do you think most contributed to Fall Protection—General Requirements being the number one most frequently cited standards in the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s fiscal year 2020 report:

Do you believe the natural gas and oil industry will have an important role in helping the economy recover from the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic?

At the end of January, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued stronger worker safety guidance to aid employers in implementing a COVID-19 prevention program and to better identify risks that could lead to exposure and contraction of the virus. Do you think the changes will be effective?

Recently, engineers from Purdue University discovered that adding small amounts of nanoscale titanium dioxide to cement could make the material more sustainable. Do you think the resulted material could outweigh any potential health and safety concerns?

Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released the final risk evaluation for n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), ruling that there are unreasonable risks to workers and consumers in 26 out of 37 conditions of use. Do you agree with the ruling?

In a new study by the University of Oregon’s Institute for Health in the Built Environment, a team of academics and industry partners are looking at how mass timber could be used in healthcare construction projects. Do you think the building material is could better benefit the industry?

In late August, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health—part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—released guidance on counterfeit respirators. Do you believe the guidance has had a positive impact on how employers can keep their employees safe?

In August, the DOL issued its Final Beryllium Standard for Construction and Shipyards. According to OSHA, the final rule is slated to impact approximately 12,000 workers employed in nearly 2,800 establishments. When do you think affected entities will successfully reach compliance?

Last month, a new wearable exoskeleton was unveiled with the aim to help contractors, tradesman and management tackle health and safety as well as labor shortage challenges. Do you think these goals will be achieved by this type of product?

Last month, a gas explosion in Northwest Baltimore killed two people and seriously injured at least seven others. While the cause is still unknown, reports have been documenting the city’s aging gas infrastructure, which was installed in the 1960s. Do you think that's the culprit?

In July, the Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers Association and its member companies submitted an action to the General Court of the European Union seeking an annulment of its recent classification of TiO2 as a Category 1B carcinogen. Should the ruling be challenged?

Last month, OSHA issued a directive that provided safety and health officers with guidance on how to enforce silica standard requirements. Do you think clarification on the enforcement of this rule was necessary?

Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have reportedly designed a new face mask that is designed to be easily sterilized and reused multiple times. While the mask is being made as a response to COVID-19, do you think the design will be popular in the paints/coatings industry as well?

Last month, New York City began opening up nonessential construction sites as directed by the phased reopening of the state put forth by Gov. Andrew Cuomo. Given current circumstances, do you think that the reopening occurred too soon, or should have happened sooner?

Throughout May and June,researchers from Arizona State University and the EPA were looking at new approaches to monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. Do you think the practice will prove to be a faster indicator of an infected community verses current individual testing methods?

Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued further interim enforcement guidance on the reusing of disposable N95 filtering face piece respirators. Do you think the additional guidance has been beneficial to the industry?

Recently, Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, along with city Chief Operations Officer Patrick Brophy, began rolling out guidelines for reopening construction projects in the city. Do you think these rules will be used to influence other cities and high-risk COVID-19 areas to reopen the industry?

In April, PaintSquare Press published “Cool Roof Policy Updates Trend in US Cities” regarding the installation of reflective roofing products on new and existing buildings in the United States. While the last 10 years have shown a major uptick in adopting policies by U.S. cities, how long do you believe it will take to incorporate a policy in each of the nation’s states?

The European Union recently published the official delegated regulation to classify titanium dioxide as a suspected carcinogen by inhalation. Should TiO2 powder products carry more than 1% of the substance, the product will now be required to display a cancer warning. Are you in support or opposition of these measures?

Last month, OSHA announced the revision of the National Emphasis Program to identify and reduce or eliminate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica in general industry, maritime and construction. Do you think the revision will provide best practices in keeping workers safe from the hazardous material?

In taking action against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, how do you feel your company will be affected as a result of growing health and safety efforts, non-essential business closures and social distancing?

India-based multi-disciplinary architectural practice Studio Symbiosis recently revealed designs for Aura air-purifying towers, envisioned to help Delhi, India, reduce increasing levels of air pollution. Do you think the technology would be useful in other cities across the globe?

Recently, New York City-based major construction project jobsites have been hit with a series of surprise inspections as an effort to reduce the amount of construction worker injuries. However, some construction workers claim that more work still needs to be done to successfully prevent accidents. In the industry, which risks do you believe pose the biggest threat to jobsite safety?

On Nov. 18, a 510-foot-long suspension bridge collapsed in southwest France, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries. Although a cause has yet to be determined, a concern raised as a result has been whether structure’s weight limits were being exceeded. Should the county consider upgrading its infrastructure or increase its precautionary warnings to avoid future incidents?

At the end of November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the ban on all retail distribution of methylene chloride to consumers for paint and coatings removal officially went into effect. Do you believe the ban will help protect consumers from the chemical’s health and safety risks?

In early November, a sinkhole roughly 100 feet long and 20 feet deep opened in Downtown Pittsburgh, causing a Port Authority G31 bus to partially sink with it. Do you think the incident is a wake-up call to upgrade Pennsylvania’s infrastructure?

In November, AIA released 133 new and updated Construction Management documents, including the Construction Manager as Constructor (CMc) and the Construction Manager as Adviser (CMa) families. Do you think the revised documents will improve the coordination and safety within the construction industry?

Last month, a 380,000-gallon oil leak was reported near Edinburgh, North Dakota. At first, the spill was reported to affect 22,500 square feet of land, but later that number was reported to actually be 10 times that amount, totaling roughly 209,100 square feet. Do you think the industry needs a better system when estimating environmental damages during initial response times?

The EPA announced last month that it would be receiving comments regarding a draft risk evaluation of more than 70 uses for methylene chloride until Dec. 30. Do think the information collected will successfully promote a list of actions needed to address those risks within the timeframe, as required by TSCA?

A 10-page update released by the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board showed that the reason behind the Philadelphia Energy Solutions explosions that occurred in June could be pointed to a degraded piece of metal piping. Given that the segment of piping had high nickel and copper content, which is susceptible to corrosion caused by the hydrofluoric acid in the process fluid, do you believe this incident could have been avoided?

Last month, the European Commission officially decided to classify titanium dioxide in its powder form as a substance that is “suspected of causing cancer in humans” despite various objections. Do you believe that the TiO2 classification will increase health and safety protection for those within the coatings industry?

The comment period ends next week for U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s August request for feedback on its current respirable crystalline silica standard as it applies to construction. In receiving feedback on “the effectiveness of engineering and work practice control methods not currently included for the tasks and equipment,” do you think appropriate control measures for pieces of equipment connected to silica exposure will be revised?

In July, a ceremony was held to celebrate the competition of the 1.5-billion-euro Chernobyl New Safe Confinement. The infrastructure—known as The Arch—is reported to be the largest moveable land-based infrastructure ever built and took a combined 33 million working hours to construct. Given a lifespan of 100 years, do you believe the essential structure for proper disassembly and decommissioning of radioactive materials will pay for itself?

In June, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced new lead standards to protect children, lowering dust-lead hazards from 40 micrograms of lead per square foot to 10 micrograms on floors and 250 micrograms to 100 micrograms on windowsills. In addition to the grant program passed in March, do you believe the EPA’s efforts will prove effective?

Recently, Louisiana’s Sunshine Bridge was struck a second time since its last incident in October. According to reports, Dank Silver (the tanker ship involved) damaged the fender system that serves to protect the bridge. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett noted that the structures themselves are designed to handle this kind of damage, however, with reoccurring instances and increased water traffic, do you think fenders are the best option for bridge protection?

With responses due for the “Building a Safer Future” by July 31—a fourth consultation on improving fire and structural safety for high-rise housing in the United Kingdom involving various revisions including: increased residential building height; revised concept of duty holders; and stronger voices for residents (to name a few)—do you think the new Implementation Plan will help to prevent future tragedies like the Grenfell Tower fire?

A bill was filed by Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, after a Florida county’s Bee Ridge treatment facility witnessed a pipe burst, releasing an estimated 900,000 gallons of wastewater, some of which flowed into a stormwater system and out into Sarasota Bay. The proposal suggests that if another sewage spill were to occur, $1 would be fined for every gallon lost. Do you think this legislation will encourage more improvements in wastewater infrastructure?

In April, a stress corrosion crack was to blame for a gas pipeline explosion that occurred just north of Mexico, Missouri. Reports indicate that the pipeline was previously tested in 2015, involving a magnetic field test. However, when a hydrotest was taken of the pipe following the incident, the test failed four times prior to its success. Do you believe pipeline inspections should be using hydro-technology over magnetic methods?

Florida Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, recently brought forth a bill that would set a statewide standard for those working outdoors in relation to heat illness prevention. Currently, OSHA has guidelines and recommendations to avoid heat hazards, but there is no set standard for heat exposure. Should OSHA write its standards or should warmer states be pushing their own legislation?

In March, the EPA issued a final rule to prohibit the manufacture and importing, processing and distribution of methylene chloride in all paint removers for consumer use, but not for contractors and professionals. Based on the number of health risks, medical claims and even deaths, do you think this is fair to workers who will have to continue to work with the common chemical?

Europe's discussion on whether or not titanium dioxide should be classified as a suspected cause of cancer via inhalation, is slowly coming to a head as the European Commission now waits for a March 7 meeting of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals Committee. Do you think TiO2 deserves this classification?

The city of Belton, South Carolina, recently proposed using orthophosphate, a phosphate-based additive, to help control the release of lead in service lines and household plumbing. Do you think this additive should be used as a safety precaution in areas with predominantly older piping?

According to a recent report, by percentage, New York City’s fatal falls more than doubled the national number. Throughout the United States, 17 percent of worker deaths were caused by fatal falls, whereas fall events were behind 36 percent of work deaths in NYC. Are you surprised by these numbers?

Just before the government shutdown, the EPA sent proposals to the Office of Management and Budget that ban the retail use of methylene chloride, but not the commercial use. Do you think this is a good idea?

A U.S. Appeals Court has confirmed that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration can cite a general contractor—even if its employees are not affected—for subcontractor safety violations. Do you agree with this ruling?

California officially approved the requirement for solar panels on new homes, which will now be added into the building code. Do you think the savings in energy costs justify the regulation?

Officials have proposed a new fix for San Francisco’s sinking Millennium Tower, that involves drilling piles into bedrock from the sidewalk on the building’s southwest corner, instead of the micro piles going into the bedrock through the concrete foundation. Do you think this is a better option?

A group of workers and environment and public health advocates recently notified the Environmental Protection Agency of its intent to sue the agency over its failure to finalize a ban on the use of methylene chloride in paint strippers. Do you think enough action has been taken against methylene chloride to date?

OSHA recently released its Top 10 violations for 2018, with fall protection, hazard communication, scaffolds, respiratory protection and lockout/tagout making up the top five violations at least three years in a row. Is this what you expected?

The Supreme Court rejected hearing the appeal of a ruling that requires paint manufacturers to pay more than $400 million for lead-paint remediation in several municipalities in California. Do you agree that the companies should be held responsible?

Earlier this month, a judge stopped the release of records related to the Florida International University bridge collapse. Do you think this was the best choice to protect the investigation?

As a result of London's fatal Grenfell Tower fire last June, government officials in the United Kingdom officially announced a ban on combustible materials in the exterior walls of new residential buildings that are 18 meters and taller. Do you think these measures are sufficient?

To help workers in the construction industry identify fall hazards and learn how to create a fall protection system, the American Society of Safety Professionals released a virtual reality app that trains users in settings that mirror actual environments, without the associated dangers. Is this a step in the right direction to combat fall hazards?

The CDC recently found that some of the heat index guidance given by the OSHA might not be sufficient. Do you think your industry takes proper precautions when dealing with heat safety?

A recent jobsite accident in a San Francisco transit tunnel has spurred promises from the San Francisco MTA to better vet general contractors. Should letting agencies investigate bidders' safety records during the contract process?

Officials from chemical company Arkema were recently indicted over explosions that occurred at a Texas plant during Hurricane Harvey last year. Should the company face charges over an incident brought on by such extreme conditions?

The CDC recently suggested current guidance on guarding workers against heat hazards may not be sufficient. In your experience, are heat risks taken seriously enough on construction sites?

Officials from chemical company Arkema were recently indicted over explosions that occurred at a Texas plant during Hurricane Harvey last year. Should the company face charges over an incident brought on by such extreme conditions?

Methylene chloride paint strippers are being phased out by some companies and retailers ahead of an anticipated partial ban by the EPA. Should they be done away with entirely?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced last month that it has decided to move forward on its original ruling on methylene chloride, prohibiting the consumer and commercial paint-stripping uses for the chemical. Do you agree with this move?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has announced that in the six months that it has been enforcing its new silica rule it has issued 116 violations. The majority of companies were cited for not measuring silica levels at all. Does this surprise you?

Elon Musk's Boring Company is seeking an exemption from a traditional environmental review for its tunneling project, but neighbors are suing to make sure a review takes place. Should L.A. require a full review?

Are you or your company participating in OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down held this week?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently issued a new bulletin regarding hearing loss brought on by solvent exposure. Do you think the painting industry properly educated on ototoxicity?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently issued a new bulletin regarding hearing loss brought on by solvent exposure. Is the painting industry properly educated on ototoxicity?

A report recently surfaced that details Apple employees accidentally running into the brand-new headquarters’ interior glass panels and hurting themselves. What kind of remedy do you think would best fix this problem?

In January, USA Today released a list of the country’s most dangerous jobs, with painting in construction and maintenance taking 24th place (out of 25) based on data related to injuries and deaths. Do you think this is an accurate depiction of the danger of professional painting?

OSHA recently renewed its alliance with the National Association of Women in Construction, aiming to safeguard women in the building trades. In your experience, are women at special risk for workplace injury in the construction industry?

A Canadian worker’s recent death has been blamed on an allergic reaction to walnut-shell blasting media. Should these products be subject to further safety regulations?

The retaliation portion of OSHA's Final Rule to Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses puts another layer of enforcement on Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which prohibits any person from discharging or discriminating against an employee who reports a fatality, injury or illness. Do you think this is necessary?

California recently passed the “Buy Clean California Act,” requiring state contractors to use materials with low carbon impact. Are laws like this a positive step?

OSHA recently released its list of the top 10 violations cited in the past fiscal year, with fall protection again topping the list. Does the industrial painting industry do enough to ensure safety from falls on jobsites?

Last month, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio signed into law a controversial bill on worker safety, effectively mandating that 180,000 city construction workers need 40-55 hours of safety training before December 2018. Do you agree that this extra training is needed?

A Canadian worker’s recent death has been blamed on an allergic reaction to walnut-shell blasting media. Should these products be subject to further safety regulations?

OSHA recently began enforcement of its new silica standard in the construction industry. Has your company made adjustments to comply with the new rule?

Specialty chemicals firm Arkema is facing a criminal investigation by the Harris County District Attorney, in addition to a number of lawsuits from neighbors and first responders in Crosby, Texas, where one of its facilities was the location of a number of explosions triggered in the wake of Hurricane Harvey in August. Do you think the company should be held liable for what happened in the wake of the hurricane?

In response to Hurricane Irma, the secretary of Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation suspended the regulation that a licensed general, building or residential contractor is required to subcontract out roofing work, allowing repairs in the state to get done quicker. Do you agree with this decision?

Black market OSHA training cards are on the rise again, according to an investigation last month. The agency is reportedly releasing new, plastic cards equipped with QR codes to curb the fraud. Do you think this will help?

A number of jobsite health incidents in the U.S. this summer were attributed to heat exhaustion. Are painting companies and other contractors doing enough to prevent heat-related illness and injury?

Two wood-framed buildings under construction were destroyed in separate fires in Boston last month. Some officials are now considering stricter rules with the all-wood building method that’s gaining in popularity. Is this a good idea?

A coastal North Carolina apartment building was evacuated due to extensive corrosion, bringing to light the lack of regular inspections on seafront buildings. Do you think routine inspections should be mandated?

The Department of Labor is currently seeking applications for its annual Susan Harwood Training Grants program, which funds worker-safety training conducted by nonprofits like employer associations and unions. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta has discussed eliminating this program in the future. Should the Harwood Grants go?

Several states have passed or discussed “Buy American” rules for steel and other materials on public works projects recently, in addition to President Donald J. Trump’s executive order calling on pipeline companies to use U.S.-made materials. Are these laws a step in the right direction?

In recent months, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has delayed or proposed changes to several rules that were promulgated under the Obama administration. Is this good or bad news?

European regulators are considering a proposal to put titanium dioxide on a list of suspected carcinogens. Is this the right move?

How much do you think regulations regarding lead paint abatement will relax during the Trump administration's tenure?

The European Chemicals Agency’s Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) announced that it concluded that TiO2, a substance commonly used in paints, construction materials and other industrial and consumer goods, meets the criteria to be classified as a suspected cause of cancer via inhalation, under Category 2. Do you think the label is warranted?

Environmental Protection Agency officials have proposed to cut two programs that help much of the country with lead paint safety in order to comply with President Donald J. Trump’s budget cuts. Do you think states will be able to pick up the slack if these federal programs are cut?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently launched its “Safe and Sound” campaign, to encourage employers in certain states to review their safety protocols to better protect workers. Do companies in the protective coatings industry review and update protocols often enough in your experience?

A Massachusetts painter was recently killed when his scissor lift came into contact with power lines. Have you or a member of your crew ever had a close call around power lines?

Several lawmakers have introduced legislation to limit or repeal the Davis-Bacon Act, which ties wages on construction projects to a “prevailing wage” for the type of work being done and the area it’s being done in. Is this a good or bad idea?

Do you anticipate taking part in planning or erecting a containment structure for a field blasting/coating job this year?

President Trump recently called on executive departments to identify regulations that might serve well to be repealed or modified. Will the coming regulation reduction be positive for the industry on the whole?

Changes to EPA rules for hazardous waste generators are changing April 28, with major alterations set to affect many, including coating manufacturers and field paint removal contractors. Is your firm preparing for the new regulations?

Last month, a California court ruled that an employer could be held responsible for so-called "take-home" asbestos, which can allegedly sicken family members after staying on a worker's clothing. Should employers be on the hook for secondhand asbestos exposure?

OSHA’s recent “Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses” rule requires employers to submit detailed injury and illness logs to the Agency and some of this information will be made public. Is this regulation a good or bad idea?

Do you find safety rules and regulations governing scaffolds and scaffold-related hazards such as falls, failing objects, structural instability, overloading and electrocution easy to understand and follow? *Editor's Note: Poll answer options were updated Nov. 22.

A recent report issued by the CDC found that construction workers appear in the top five on a list of occupations with the highest suicide rates. What do you think is the cause?

Last month, a painter fell to his death on a water tower job, working for a firm with numerous safety violations and falls in its history. What more can be done to prevent such tragedies?

Fresno, CA, recently banned the use of galvanized pipe for water service in new construction and remodels from fears of corrosion and drinking-water contamination. What do you think of this move?

This summer has been characterized by excessive heat warnings and a “heat dome” in the central United States. How do you protect workers who must be outside in these conditions?

Upcoming federal regulations governing injury reporting have been put on hold after an industry lawsuit; the new rules would effectively prohibit employers from drug testing employees after an injury or illness is reported, because testing could be considered to be retaliation. Are these rules a good idea?

When a safety inspector finds a potentially unsafe condition on a jobsite and notifies supervisors who then fail to warn workers of the danger, he or she should:

After being found guilty in connection with the death of a 22-year-old worker on a New York City construction site, a general contractor was handed a sentence requiring it to fund and take part in a public service announcement regarding construction site safety. Was this sentence fair?

What’s the best way to maintain a safe jobsite?

When renovating an old structure, like a ship, where does the responsibility for informing workers about possible lead exposure lie?

OSHA recently finalized its rule to better protect workers from respirable silica dust exposure, but several industry groups are against it. What do you think?

As a coatings professional, when you tackle “small” painting jobs around the house, do you still observe the same kinds of safety precautions you do on the job?

Do you think the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will implement its long-awaited rule on silica exposure this year?

What do you think of OSHA's proposed fine increases for 2016?

Should a federal agency, like private companies, receive a monetary penalty of some kind when OSHA finds safety or health violations at one of their worksites?

The Golden Gate Bridge is getting a $76 million metal "net" system to deter jumpers from using the bridge to end their lives. Do you think this is a good use of those funds?

What do you think of OSHA's proposed rule on Beryllium limits?

A Pennsylvania roofer is facing 25 years in prison for lying, and ordering employees to lie, to OSHA inspectors after a worker was killed in a 45-foot fall. Does the potential punishment fit the crime?

Worker fatalities are on the rise in the energy industry. Why do you think that is?

An industry-backed bill in Michigan—tougher than federal law--would allow pipeline companies to keep inspection, safety and other records secret. How does that sound to you?

Does OSHA need more authority to address its most flagrant repeat violators?

California regularly sets up “stings” of unlicensed contractors by posing as homeowners, soliciting bids for projects that require licenses, then arresting the individuals. What do you think of this strategy?

Proponents of emergency city curfews say they deter violence and destruction. Foes say curfews restrict the rights of law-abiding citizens. What say you?

Five years after the deadly BP explosion in the Gulf, which aspect of the offshore industry still needs the most safety attention?

What health or safety hazard in coating work is most often on your mind?

Should federal agencies have the right to mandate safety and security rules (such as hair length and protective gear) that may conflict with religious preferences?

NIOSH has recommended that all U.S. workplaces be smokefree (including e-cigarettes). Do you support this idea?

A Chinese company has 3D-printed a five-story apartment building. Would you live in it?

OSHA will not investigate a scaffolding collapse in Portland that damaged property but did not injure anyone. Should some federal agency be required to review job-site accidents that occur when no one is working?

A new system allows workers to anonymously text information and photos about site hazards and near misses to employers. Good idea or bad idea?

After numerous warnings, federal OSHA has rejected Arizona’s residential fall-protection guidelines as too lenient. Should states be allowed to craft standards that are looser than federal OSHA’s?

New York's 135-year-old Scaffold Safety Law holds employers and owners 100% liable in injury lawsuits if they fail to provide adequate equipment or training. A new bill would change the law to factor in the worker's responsibility. What do you think?

M/W/DBE fraud has been widely reported lately. What's the best way to address that problem?

A new market forecast shows booming demand for silica sand in North America, just as OSHA prepares to limit silica exposures. So what’s the take-home message?

What is your general impression of OSHA inspectors who visit your site?

Your New Year's magic genie has arrived to grant you one wish! So what'll it be?

Your New Year's magic genie has arrived to grant you one wish! What will it be?

A building collapse in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter has raised concern over city building inspections, which do not include structural interiors. What do you think of this policy?

After 4½ years, the EPA is set to announce Dec. 19 whether it will reclassify coal ash as hazardous waste. What’s your prediction?

Do you conduct drug tests on your employees?

The family of a U.S. worker killed on the job is calling for a $50,000 mandatory fine if a workplace hazard is found to "materially contribute" to a fatal incident. (The fine in their case was $2,300.) What do you think?

A proposed U.S. rule would ban “pay secrecy” by federal contractors and allow those workers to openly share wage information. What do you think?

U.S. regulators have reinstated an employee fired for making a secret video of a failed inspection test. Whom do you back?

What is the best way for employers to ensure that employees who are provided fall protection actually wear it?

How well do you think weight limits are being enforced on bridges and highways?

Do you see safety hazards (including personnel) on the job serious enough to report if you could do so completely anonymously?

About how often do you see full compliance with fall protection on a project?

San Francisco has slapped "Earthquake Warning" labels on buildings whose owners are not complying with a new retrofit program. Owners are crying foul. What do you think?

The U.S. will force companies that owe federal fines for hazmat violations to pay up or shut down. Good plan or bad plan?

Renowned architect Zaha Hadid has said that architects “have nothing to do with the workers.” Should architects concern themselves with worker conditions on their projects?

The U.S. EPA is weighing its next move on dangerous chemical paint strippers. What should that move be?

Which of these would be most likely to change your safety practices?

The California Supreme Court has ruled that principal architects are legally liable for the consequences of their designs, even if the architect did not have the final say on construction. Fair or unfair?

A new U.S. Executive Order will require bidders for major federal contracts to report recent wage, safety or other labor law violations. Good idea or bad idea?

In general, how often do you see workers using appropriate fall protection measures and equipment in roofing work?

OSHA is considering increasing “whistleblower” protection for employees who report health and safety problems. Good idea or bad idea?

Four years on, how would you describe EPA’s enforcement of the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program?

New U.S. rules are in effect to increase hiring of veterans and individuals with disabilities. Have these mandates affected your hiring practices?

What should a builder do if he or she encounters design or specification issues that may affect a building’s integrity or performance?

California regulators fined and halted a $6.34M drywall project because the contractor had no license, although he had applied four months earlier. What do you think?

How often do you think speed compromises worker safety to meet a project deadline?

How much training do you/your employees receive in dealing with emergencies (fire, structural collapse, etc.) on a work site?

What do you think of OSHA’s proposal to move injury and illness reporting online and make it available to the public?

California is targeting two specific chemicals used in paint stripper and spray polyurethane foam. What do you think?

How should industry employers treat marijuana in states where it is now legal?

What legislative priority should the American Coatings Association’s PaintPAC be looking for in its political candidates this year?

Here come the public hearings on OSHA’s proposal to slash silica exposure in the workplace. What should OSHA do with this proposal?

Generally speaking, which type of infrastructure do you think poses the greatest safety concern today?

A California architect who improperly built a home with outdoor fireplaces installed inside has been sentenced to a year in prison for involuntary manslaughter after a house fire killed a firefighter. Does the penalty fit?

OSHA is asking (but not requiring) commenters on the federal silica proposal to disclose funding sources and conflicts of interest. Good idea or bad idea?

Deaths and citations from worksite falls are reaching new highs. So why do so many workers still skip fall protection?

OSHA is proposing that employers’ Form 300 illness and injury logs be put online for public access. Good idea or bad idea?

The world’s largest labor group accuses Qatar of near-slavery treatment of World Cup 2022 construction workers. What should World Cup sponsor FIFA do?

Admitting that its own chemical exposure standards are inadequate, OSHA is urging employers to voluntarily follow tighter rules. What do you think of this strategy?

The world’s largest labor group accuses Qatar of near-slavery treatment of World Cup 2022 construction workers. What should World Cup sponsor FIFA do?

Construction employers want three more months to comment on OSHA’s proposed silica rule. Should OSHA grant the extension?

Deaths and citations from worksite falls are reaching new highs. Why don’t more workers use appropriate fall protection?

Some parties involved in fatal structural collapses are facing criminal charges. Should such collapses be investigated as civil matters, criminal matters, or both?

Multiple studies suggest that workers underreport on-the-job injuries and illnesses. What do you see?

After decades of non-regulatory approaches, OSHA has proposed a rule to limit worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Do you favor this rule?

OSHA has finally announced a proposed rule to limit worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Do you support this plan?

On Labor Day, did you honestly give much thought to the holiday’s meaning (honoring workers and labor)?

Which of these thoughts have you most lived to regret on the job?

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced that it will extend benefits to same-sex spouses of uniformed service members and civilian employees by Sept. 3. Good move or bad move?

Which work pressure is most likely to keep you up at night?

A UK contractor will serve three years in prison for allowing an untrained employee to do work that cost him his life. What do you think of this sentence?

Three years after it was implemented, what’s your impression of compliance with the residential Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule?

How do you expect the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) to affect your business next year?

“I know we have to protect the employees, but sometimes they don’t listen,” one employer cited by OSHA said recently. What should happen in such cases?

The U.S. EPA is considering expanding its lead-safe rules for residential work to public and commercial projects. What do you think?

The fertilizer plant that exploded in West, TX, was last inspected in 1985, causing some people to question OSHA’s oversight. Overall, how do you feel about OSHA’s oversight?

The buyer of a foreclosed, century-old home sold for $3,600 was awarded $115,000 because she did not receive an EPA lead notice. Who should be responsible for such notifications?

Federal lawmakers have reintroduced a bill to allow homeowners to opt out of the EPA’s lead-safe painting requirements. Do you support this plan?

What industry trends do you follow most closely?

The U.S. EPA has revived its plan (required by a court agreement) to mandate lead-safe practices on public-works and commercial projects. What’s your take on this?

In these “do more with less” days, how often do you feel safety is being compromised in the process?

New Jersey has decided to waive some environmental permitting requirements to allow for the immediate rebuilding of public infrastructure that was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. Good or bad idea?

How do you expect Hurricane Sandy to affect your business?

A worker in the doomed Florida parking garage reported cracks just before it collapsed. Have you ever been concerned about the safety of a building where you worked?

EPA has been deliberating for more than two years on whether to regulate Coal Combustion Residuals (slag, ash) as hazardous waste. What do you think?

Some cities are considering regulating exterior paint colors for commercial buildings. Is this a good idea?

OSHA’s UK counterpart is adapting a “loser pays” system, in which companies that break health and safety laws would have to help pay for investigation and enforcement. What do you think of this idea?

An asbestos contractor will serve 10 years in prison for a shoddy removal job. What’s your take on that sentence?

A Pennsylvania painting company owner faces criminal charges for the electrocution of an employee. Authorities say he ignored the presence of high-power lines on a job site. Is the charge fair?

In your experience, how honestly are workplace injuries and illnesses reported in OSHA logs?

In a major decision in the climate-change debate, The U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. on June 26 ruled that the EPA is correct in its plans to regulate heat-trapping gases (so-called greenhouse gases), dismissing arguments that the science of global warming is suspect. What is your opinion of this decision?

Which regulation would you dump to spur the most job creation?

An experienced industrial painter crippled in a 40-foot fall was recently awarded $2.3 million for his injuries, although he was not wearing fall protection. What do you think of this jury verdict?

It takes OSHA an average of about eight years to issue a rule, and some rules have taken more than 17 years. The General Accountability Office says this slow process leaves workers at risk. What do you think?

What is the biggest health and safety challenge facing construction, remodeling and painting-contractor companies?

How do you feel about EPA and OSHA regulations (VOCs, heavy metal pigments

Most workplace deaths and serious injuries are easily prevented with well-known safety precautions, yet horrific industry accidents still happen frequently. Who is most responsible for this situation?

More than a dozen Americans (including painters) have died in recent years from methylene chloride paint strippers. Now the European Union is cracking down on the products. What should the US do?

New York’s Scaffold Law is the only one in the nation that holds employers automatically 100% liable for elevation-related injuries to workers. Is this fair?

More employees than ever are blowing the whistle on their companies for various infractions, according to OSHA. When should a worker blow the whistle on the boss?

A senior engineer at MassDOT says the agency has a culture of secrecy about confronting safety issues. How does your company or organization approach safety problems internally and on site?

What should the federal government do about environmental regulations in light of weakness in the economy, especially construction?

A year after the catastrophic BP oil spill in the Gulf, which aspect of the offshore industry still needs the most attention?

What does Japan's nuclear crisis mean for the future of nuclear power in the US?

Congress is considering slashing EPA’s and OSHA’s authority and/or funding. How will this affect the coatings industry?

Would your business be better off with or without the EPA?

What do you see as the chief cause of accidents on site?

What will happen to the regulatory climate, especially with OSHA and EPA, in 2011?

What is the most important effect of EPA and OSHA safety and ennvironmental regulations on coating work?

Who should be held most liable for unsafe practices at a worksite?

Several recent catastrophic workplace accidents have prompted criminal charges against owners of companies involved in the project. When should criminal charges against company officers be an option?

A new audit shows that OSHA is quick to drastically reduce fines for workplace violations—even repeat violations. Safety advocates say the agency has fallen down on its enforcement mandate. What do you think?

A new study shows growing and widespread non-compliance with requirements for Personal Protective Equipment. What is your impression of PPE compliance across the industry?

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