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Regulatory relief for commercial drivers to combat COVID-19

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a national emergency declaration to provide hours-of-service (HOS) regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting emergency relief in response to the nationwide coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. This declaration is believed to be the first time the agency has issued nationwide relief and follows President Trump's issuing of a national emergency declaration in response to the virus.



Department of Transportation issues notice related to CBD products

CBD products may have higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC - the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana - than the Department of Transportation allows in a non-controlled substance, the agency cautions in a Feb. 18 policy and compliance notice, adding that CBD use is not a "legitimate medical explanation" for a safety-sensitive employee who tests positive for marijuana.



Opioid use in construction: CPWR issues report, launches awareness training

The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) has launched a beta version of a training program aimed at combating the opioid crisis in construction. Intended for use by experienced instructors and developed in conjunction with North America's Building Trades Unions, the program comprises six sections and covers topics such as the opioid epidemic, prevention and harm reduction, and treatment and recovery.

A Feb. 27 webinar from CPWR provided an overview of a recent report, and highlighted available resources and efforts to help mitigate the effect of opioids on the industry.



Helpful guide for choosing slip-resistant footwear

To assist in the selection and purchase of slip-resistant footwear for the workplace, Canadian research organization IRSST has published a free online guide.



Federal agencies launch website on school safety and security

The Department of Education, together with the departments of Health and Human Services, Justice, and Homeland Security, has launched a new website it calls a "one-stop shop of resources" for K-12 teachers, administrators, parents and law enforcement to identify, prepare for, respond to and mitigate school safety threats.



NIOSH launches online inspection tool for mast climbers

A new online tool from NIOSH is designed to guide users through daily pre-shift inspections of mast climbing work platforms and help identify common hazards associated with the equipment.