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Thursday, June 1, 2023
EHS Professional is an online publication of the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM)
are compiled from independent sources and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of IHMM.
Benefits of an ASHM® Credential
IHMM’s Associate Safety and Health Manager (ASHM®) credential recognizes professionals who are recent Bachelor’s degree graduates with a focus in health and safety-related fields. This credential puts the holder on the fast-track to the CSHM credential. With ASHM® on your resume, you tell employers you’re serious about a career in EHS Management.
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IHMM Credential Recognition
Below you will see the 4 EHS credential badges that are now in each CSHM, CSMP, ASHM, and Student ASHM certificant’s MYIHMM account. Every IHMM certificant may use these badges, linked as those below are to their IHMM credential page, for their email signatures, business cards, and other social media applications. You’re justifiably proud of the accomplishment of having earned your credential and you can show the rest of the world. Simply right-click on the badge of choice, then save as to your computer, and then load it to wherever you want to use it and please link that back to https://ihmm.org/.
IHMM Certificant Recognition
IHMM has completed inserting new credential badges in every certificant’s MYIHMM account. Everyone may access those badges for use in their email signatures, LinkedIn accounts, and other social media and communications media. With a link from your credential badge to the IHMM website [see above] you can not only stand out as an IHMM-certified professional, you can also promote IHMM credentials to others. Right-click on the badge of choice, save as to your computer, then load it to whatever medium you choose.
Throughout our certificant’s MYIHMM accounts are also now placed 10 Year, 20 Year, and 30 Year badges signifying their longevity as an IHMM certified professional.
IHMM has also added Distinguished Diplomates and Fellows of the Institute badges to the appropriate people in the MYIHMM database. These two badges will be accompanied by new lapel pins to be sent to each of those distinguished by holding these designations.
IHMM Credentials Accredited By
Need Help? On the IHMM website just click on the “NEED HELP?” button
and let us know what you need and the right person will get right back with you.
IHMM UPDATES
Teachers Agree on Most School Safety Issues, Except Guns
Lawmakers approve school safety bill that would require an armed person at every Texas campus
Great Falls school briefly implements security procedure
How Elizabeth Schools Upgraded Security on a Budget
The Role of School Boards and Superintendents in Crisis Management
State of School Safetty 2022 Report
Create a S.A.F.E.R. Learning Environment with Integrated Security and Communications Solutions
DHS Releases Summary of Terrorism Threat to the United States
AI Finds Promising New Antibiotic for Superbug
White House Roundtable Focuses on Workplace Mental Health
Encouraging Mental Health Awareness: How to Support New Employees from Day One
Building Business Bridges: Networking Events at ASSP Safety 2023
Contractor Faces Proposed Penalties of $112K After Trench Collapse, Worker Fatality
OSHA Seeking Stakeholder Input on Leading Indicators for Potential New Resource
Dollar General facing $3.4 million in new OSHA fines
Know how to properly assess noise levels and choose the proper protection
Connected worker practices can transform worker safety
How to proactively manage construction safety through pre-operational planning
Litigation over toxic chemicals is spearheaded by public sympathy for ‘heroes’
US Department of Labor investigation finds Columbus children’s hospital exposed nurses, other employees to workplace violence
US Department of Labor finds Colorado contractor exposing workers to trench cave-ins, including one that caused teenager’s fatal injuries
A Brave New World: Asset management for the water sector
Backlog rebounds from 7-month low
The State of Labor in Construction
The Art of Selling Safety
A Guide to OSHA-Compliant Hearing Testing
OSHA Accepting Applications for Susan Harwood Training Grants
Safety Firm Sold Fake Construction Training Cards, NYC DA Charges
Accident at Regina International Airport Kills Construction Worker
Rebar-Tying Robot Slashes Time on Wisconsin Bridge Project
‘Harnessing Innovation’ – The Top 3 Technological Gains Transforming Construction Today
Malta Dynamics Unveils Cutting-Edge ANSI Type 2 APEX Safety Helmet with Integrated WaveOn Smart Technology
Pet Goods Supplier Chewy Wins Challenge to OSHA Fine over Worker Death
Majority of States Have Legalized Marijuana, but OSHA’s Post-Incident Drug-Testing Guidance Hasn’t Changed
OSHA Investigation Scaffolding Collapse at Sanford Orthopedic Hospital
49 People Have Been Killed at Dollar General Stores Since 2017-Workers are Protesting for Safer Conditions
Federal Regulators Demand New MBTA Employee Safety Plan
Washington Officials Seeking Worker Safety Solutions after String of Robberies
Understanding PUWER as a Regulation Ensuring Workplace Safety
How Businesses Keep Workers Safe During Natural Disasters
IHMM GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
IHMM Government Affairs – Needs You
IHMM is building volunteers for its Government Affairs Committee – open to all IHMM certificants. Anyone may join the committee on its website here >> https://ihmm.org/government-affairs-committee/
Furthering the interests of certificants to secure government recognition of IHMM credentials
Determine which state or federal regulatory actions to become involved with
Determine which state or federal legislative activities to become involved with
The committee may be as busy as it chooses to be as IHMM certificants determine the number and scope of its activities in one of the most important areas in which we work both to secure recognition as well as to promote the strengths of our subject matter experts across the broad range of government policy making that affects us all.
OSHA and NIOSH Update Handbook for Small Businesses
Self-inspection checklists for ergonomics, young workers, workplace violence and infection control have been added to the OSHA/NIOSH Small Business Safety and Health Handbook.
The revised handbook features checklists on a wide variety of topics, including electrical safety, emergency planning, fire safety, hazard communication, heat illness prevention, noise exposure and fall protection. It also details how to implement a safety and health program and the value of having a program in place.
“Employers that make job safety and health a real part of their everyday operations will benefit in the long run,” the handbook states. “Investing in a safety and health program now will help you avoid possible losses in the future. A safe business is a sound business.”
OSHA to Hold Public Meeting June 15 to Discuss Modernizing, Improving, Expanding its Voluntary Protection Programs
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration will hold a stakeholder meeting on Thursday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT, to discuss modernizing, improving and expanding the agency’s Voluntary Protection Programs. The public may attend the meeting in person in the Frances Perkins Building, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210. Register to attend in person or virtually at VPP Stakeholder Meeting Registration by June 1. Virtual attendees will only be in listening mode; questions and comment opportunities will not be available.
The agency seeks input from stakeholders, regardless of whether they have had direct, indirect and no involvement with VPP facilities, on questions such as the following:
- Are there leading indicators for measuring future performance of safety and health management systems?
- How can OSHA encourage more employers to apply to VPP?
- Aside from current customer experience surveys, how can OSHA solicit more frequent and timely feedback on the program?
- Beyond the OSHA Challenge, how can the agency increase the use of effective safety and health management systems by companies not in the VPP?
- How can OSHA improve the program’s quality or integrity?
- Given OSHA’s limited resources, how can the agency grow VPP more efficiently?
- In what ways, can safety and health consensus standards be used to create pathways for companies to participate in the VPP?
For more information, see the OSHA Trade Release.
Professional Certification Coalition
IHMM is a member of the PCC. The PCC monitors state and federal legislative and regulatory activity affecting professional certification on an ongoing basis. The PCC has compiled several “Watchlists” identifying and analyzing provisions in pending legislation at both the state and federal level that, under applicable rules, may still be enacted in the current legislative session. Depending on the carry-over rules in the relevant legislature, the charts listing current legislation may include bills introduced in a prior year. In addition, the PCC compiles each year a chart of enacted legislation that affects certification. The charts include hyperlinks to every bill or executive order. Note that the Watchlist and the Enacted Legislation document do not include profession-specific legislation and do not include regulatory initiatives. The charts will be updated as needed based on new developments.
Beltway Buzz – Ogletree Deakins
Debt Ceiling Debate Deadlock. Over the years, the Buzz has bemoaned our elected officials’ penchant for brinksmanship, but the current situation is getting ridiculous. Once again, negotiations over raising the debt ceiling took center stage in Washington, D.C., this week. Like most disputes in life, it all comes down to money, with Republicans seeking less spending in the coming fiscal year, while Democrats insist on a “clean” bill to raise the debt ceiling. A deal remains elusive, and it is probably not great that the U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to be out next week (though members will be instructed to return to D.C. within twenty-four hours if needed). According to the latest update from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, “it is highly likely that Treasury will no longer be able to satisfy all of the government’s obligations if Congress has not acted to raise or suspend the debt limit by early June, and potentially as early as June 1.”
EEOC Issues More Guidance on Use of Artificial Intelligence. Last week, the Buzz discussed the U.S. Congress’s nascent role in setting parameters for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Not to be outdone by Congress, late last week, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission—which has already acknowledged such technology’s potential impact on discrimination law—issued a second guidance document on the subject. Specifically, the guidance document addresses how the use of “algorithmic decision-making tools” can have a disparate impact on applicants in a way that violates federal anti-discrimination law. EEOC cautions employers that they may be held responsible if their algorithmic tools discriminate against job candidates, even if the tools are designed or administered by outside vendors. Jennifer G. Betts, Danielle Ochs, and Zachary V. Zagger have the details. One thing to keep in mind as our regulators attempt to address the proliferation of AI in the workplace: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 does not grant EEOC substantive rulemaking authority.
DOL Issues PUMP Act Guidance. On May 17, 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division issued a field assistance bulletin (FAB) providing guidance for agency officials who are enforcing the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act). The memo clarifies the following issues:
- Break time. DOL emphasizes that the “frequency, duration, and timing of breaks” to pump breast milk will vary depending on the employee and child, and that while a break schedule may be agreed to, the employer can’t implement a fixed schedule that does not work for the employee. Further, this “may need to be adjusted” as the employee’s needs change.
- Compensation. Unless otherwise required by law, employers are not required to compensate nonexempt employees who break to pump breast milk, but “[s]hort breaks, usually 20 minutes or less, provided by the employer must be counted as hours worked.” If the employee is not completely relieved of her duties while pumping, the time must be compensated.
- Space requirements. The PUMP Act requires employers to providing pumping employees with a non-bathroom space that is shielded from view and free from intrusion. DOL suggests a sign or lock for the space and notes that “[t]he location must be functional as a space for pumping.” This means the space must contain a chair and a table or counter, and ideally should have access to electricity and a sink nearby.
The memo also details the exemption for crewmembers of air carriers, the exemption for small employers that can demonstrate that compliance requires an undue hardship, the delayed application (beginning December 29, 2025) for rail carriers and motor coach services operators, and encourages employers to post an updated Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) poster.
House Committee Shines Light on NLRB Actions. On May 23, 2023, the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions held a hearing entitled, “Protecting Employees’ Rights: Ensuring Fair Elections at the NLRB.” During the hearing, Republicans and their witnesses focused on National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo’s April 2022 memo limiting employer speech, as well as her ongoing efforts to install a card check union representation process. In addressing this later issue, one witness wrote, “The failure to achieve legislative support for card check strongly suggests the Board lacks the power to enact it on its own.” On the other hand, a union lawyer testified in favor of limiting employer’s statutory rights to discuss the pros and cons of unionization with employees, advocated for electronic voting in union representation elections (which has been found to be prone to fraud and coercion), and encouraged Congress to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act.
Bipartisan Immigration Bill Lands in House. This week, a bipartisan group of House members introduced the “Dignity for Immigrants while Guarding our Nation to Ignite and Deliver the American Dream Act of 2023” (DIGNIDAD (Dignity) Act of 2023) (H.R. 3599). The ambitious bill would overhaul the entire immigration system. Among other changes, the bill would:
- institute mandatory E-verify;
- only count the applicant (not spouse or children) toward the high-skilled visa cap;
- provide work authorization to H-1B spouses;
- staple an O visa to the diplomas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) Ph.D. graduates to allow them to work in the United States;
- provide funding to improve visa processing at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the U.S. Department of State, and the Office of Foreign Labor Certification at DOL;
- codify the Flores settlement agreement regarding standards for the detention, treatment, and release of unaccompanied minors;
- establish five humanitarian campuses along the U.S. southern border and an additional five campuses in Latin America where asylum seekers will reside while their case is decided, ending “catch and release”;
- provide Dreamers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients “with conditional permanent resident status for 10 years” and “an earned pathway to adjust to lawful permanent resident status”;
- provide a conditional program for undocumented immigrants to earn legal status through a series of background checks, restitution, payment of back taxes, etc.; and
- modernize the H-2A guest worker program by providing a year-round agricultural workforce and simplifying the wage and petition processes.
Of course, with a bill this sweeping, there are provisions that some groups are going to like and provisions that some groups aren’t going to like. The solution, of course, would be some type of legislative compromise, which is a tall order in our current political climate.
Other State and Federal Activities
In this section, we will highlight other state and federal government affairs activities undertaken by the committee.
Current Priorities April-June 2023
PHMSA Recycled Plastics Policy – https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/04/14/2023-07869/hazardous-materials-request-for-feedback-on-recycled-plastics-policy
Ohio EPA Hazardous Waste Rules – https://epa.ohio.gov/about/media-center/events/public-hearing-HazWasteRules
NY Department of Labor rulemaking concerning the recognition of the CSHM and CSMP. IHMM’s comments concerning initiating this rulemaking are here
Work with Eric Vega in Puerto Rico concerning credential recognition
Review of the Governor of Nevada’s Executive Order concerning licensing boards and potential for recognition of the CHMM. IHMM’s comments on the Governor’s Executive Order are here
Scheduling meetings with the Maryland Congressional delegation concerning the Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist [CPPS] credential
IHMM Credential Recognition
The highest priority of IHMM’s Government Affairs Committee is the recognition of IHMM’s credentials by government. We have made substantial progress in the two years we have undertaken this endeavor, as outlined in detail here > https://ihmm.org/credential-recognition/
In this project we have 45-in-5, increasing the number of states that recognize IHMM credentials.
- We have already succeeded in 13 states – New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Indiana, California, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Arkansas, Oklahoma. Ohio, North Dakota, and Georgia. [Red states in the map above]. These are states where IHMM credentials are cited or 40 CFR 312.10 is cited by reference.
- We have partially succeeded in another 16 states – Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Arizona, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, Delaware, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine. [Orange/Black Stripe states in the map above] These are states where the requirements of an “environmental professional” or QEP are cited that coincide with an IHMM credential so that relatively little work would need to be done to clarify the desired outcome.
- We have 21 states where no reference to an IHMM credential is made in either statute or regulation, nor is there anything defined in the area of an environmental professional. These states will require legislation or regulatory work. [Yellow states in the map above].
in January 2022 Gene Guilford released the 40 CFR § 312.10 EPA regulation that states a private certification that meets or exceeds the requirements of the regulation is an Environmental Professional under the regulation. Here is the crosswalk between the 40 CFR § 312.10 EPA regulation and the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager [CHMM] blueprint. The CHMM meets or exceeds the requirements of an Environmental Professional.
Here’s what we ask each volunteer to do:
- Watch legislative and regulatory developments in your state that provide an opportunity for us to create amendments or other interventions
- Be willing to speak with regulators and legislators in your area about the recognition efforts we craft together
INSIDE IHMM
Certified School Safety Manager® [CSSM®] Launches
IHMM is pleased to announce, after more than 18 months of work, that the Certified School Safety Manager [CSSM] credential has been built from the ground up with its first blueprint and examination.
IHMM thanks the CSSM Committee > https://ihmm.org/csss-cssm-committee/ starting with its Chair Mike Howe, CSSM, for all of the time and effort building a new credential where none had existed before.
IHMM’s Certified School Safety Manager® [CSSM®] credential certifies the school safety professional who is responsible for overseeing and supporting key operational and safety functions in educational facilities. This position may provide direct supervision or advise operations and academic programs in order to provide an environment free of recognized hazards.
The IHMM CSSM website is here.
Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist® [CPPS®] Coming
For the past year the IHMM Microcredential Task Force > https://ihmm.org/microcredential-task-force/ has been developing the first IHMM microcredential, the Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist [CPPS].
A Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist (CPPS) Microcredential holder is first a CHMM or CSHM credentialed professional who has demonstrated, through education, experience, and examination, the ability to identify and assess the risks associated with pathogens and their effect on public health, commerce, industry, and/or government operation. The focus of the CPPS microcredential is to: assess and provide guidance concerning the preparedness levels of different entities, develop and implement risk-reduction strategies.
Common functions may include training needs assessment, identifying supply chain challenges, best practices and technologies associated with identified risks, leading multi-stakeholder meetings, and related duties. Mastery of International Standards including ISO 45006 Managing Infectious Diseases as well as ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, serves as a basis for this International IHMM Microcredential.
Much of this work is also based on the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness, whose annual report released last September strongly reflected that America was ill-prepared for COVID-19 and will be unprepared for the next pandemic unless public and private professionals act.
The CPPS blueprint has been completed, and the new CPPS examination is being loaded into the Kryterion system and IHMM should be in a position to release the CPPS website and deliver applications and examinations by the 4th of July.
ASSP Safety Conference and Exposition Next Week
San Antonio, TX
June 5-7, 2023
Come visit IHMM in booth #860!
IHMM Board of Directors Nominations
IHMM Directors and Officers are volunteers who serve without pay. They may serve up to two, four-year terms. Directors are responsible for the governance of IHMM, including establishing the overall direction of IHMM, the appointment of Executive Director, policy-making, and financial management.
IHMM has two Board seats expiring at the end of 2023. IHMM is soliciting candidates for these two seats; one At-Large Director seat that may be held by a CHMM, CHMP, CDGP, CSHM or CSMP. One CSMP Director seat must be held by a CSMP.
The composition of the present Board is here > https://ihmm.org/board-of-directors/
Qualified candidates may submit nomination papers [self-nomination is acceptable] on or before June 30, 2023. The documents for this announcement, procedures, and nomination form are here:
There are 968 different conversations going on in the IHMM/HMS Collaboration platform this week.
A collaborative culture is important for every business but is especially important for our hazardous materials, dangerous goods, environment, health, and safety communities of practice. Do you have a problem you need to solve and want the opinions of your colleagues? This is where we come together to help each other.
IHMM credentialed professionals are at the top 1% of their professions and their reach is global. We are at the forefront of environmental protection, health, and safety and this is where collaborating with the best people in their fields, always willing to help one another, lessens the stress of our jobs, and where we strive as a team to make a difference of which we are proud.
We opened COLLABORATION to enable thousands of certificants and supporters to collaborate together. You can collaborate here.
Access to COLLABORATION is through the same username/password you use to access your MYIHMM account. Having a problem? Contact Jimmy Nguyen at [email protected]
IHMM Excellence in EHS Management Award
The Excellence in EHS Management Award recognizes an individual who has excelled in their role as an EHS manager. The Institute for Hazardous Materials Management [IHMM] will present the award at the annual National Safety Council Expo.
The honoree will receive a commemorative plaque and be recognized in a press release and in IHMM member communications. Travel expenses to the award ceremony will be subsidized. If traveling from overseas IHMM will pay travel expenses from the nearest port of entry.
Nominations will be accepted from March through July of each year and the presentation to the winner will be in conjunction with the National Safety Council Congress and Expo, this year on October 23-25, 2023 in New Orleans.
Make your nominations here >> https://ihmm.org/ehs-management-award/
See previous award winners here >> https://ihmm.org/past-honorees/
AIHA and IHMM Collaborate on Education and Training
The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management [IHMM] and the American Industrial Hygiene Association [AIHA] have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding granting access to AIHA education and training assets to IHMM certificants.
IHMM’s Certified Hazardous Materials Manager [CHMM®], Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner [CHMP®], Certified Safety and Health Manager [CSHM®], and Certified Safety Management Practitioner [CSMP®] credential blueprints all have components of industrial hygiene disciplines and the access of IHMM’s certificants to the AIHA education and training programs vastly strengthens those credentials and the professionals who hold them.
In the coming weeks look for these AIHA programs to be added to the IHMM foundation’s education programs at the Hazardous Materials Society [HMS]. IHMM organized its HMS foundation to, in part, provide access to the best education and training programs available and the addition of AIHA programs is a tremendous addition to support for IHMM credentials.
IHMM thanks AIHA for this collaboration in education and training and looks forward to a long and productive relationship.
American Industrial Hygiene Association – https://www.aiha.org/
Institute of Hazardous Materials Management – https://ihmm.org/
IHMM Needs Volunteers
“There’s nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.” — Jimmy Doolittle. We all benefit from the expertise, knowledge sharing, content creation and mentoring that our volunteer leaders share with our communities of practice.
IHMM has a wide variety of ways that our certificants and members can volunteer their time, make a substantial contribution to their communities of practice, and earn valuable Continuing Maintenance Points [CMPs].
Volunteering with IHMM is a deeply rewarding and giving endeavor, ranging from being a subject matter expert on a scheme committee to leading discussions in our COLLABORATION engagement platform to becoming a mentor for a college student.
Take a few minutes and review How to Become An IHMM Volunteer, and then scroll down and take the volunteer self-assessment.
Government Affairs Committee
- Open to all certificants > https://ihmm.org/government-affairs-committee/
- We need volunteers in these states: We have partially succeeded in another 16 states – Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Arizona, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, Delaware, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine. [Orange/Black Stripe states in the map above] These are states where the requirements of an “environmental professional” or QEP are cited that coincide with an IHMM credential so that relatively little work would need to be done to clarify the desired outcome.
- IHMM engages in credential recognition from government for all of its credentials – so volunteering for govt affairs matters to every credential holder.
Improving Workplace Safety With Robots
Recent advancements in data science and AI means robotic vehicles and arms can eliminate employees’ exposure to dangerous machinery and workplace hazards.
In a new whitepaper, Improving Workplace Safety with Robotics, the National Safety Council, through its Work to Zero initiative, evaluated the benefits of robotics and autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs, on reducing injuries and fatalities in the workplace.
“Robotics have long been deployed by organizations to improve operational efficiencies, but as companies increasingly look towards a more automated future, the many benefits this technology brings to workplace safety programs cannot be overlooked,” said Katherine Mendoza, senior director, workplace programs, NSC, in a statement.
“Recent advancements in data science and artificial intelligence mean that robotic vehicles and arms aren’t just capable of augmenting complex, precise tasks alongside human workers, but in many instances can eliminate employees’ exposure to dangerous machinery and workplace hazards altogether,” Mendoza added.
Read more by clicking here.
Discover the Charms of San Antonio: 3 Attractions to See After Safety 2023
You won’t have a hard time finding something to do after Safety 2023 in San Antonio, Texas.
Almost ready for the American Society of Safety Professionals’ (ASSP) Safety 2023 Conference and Expo (Safety 2023)? Taking place this year in beautiful Texas, Safety 2023 will bring professionals from all over to San Antonio from June 5 to 7.
While the event itself has so much to offer, you may be wondering how to spend your evenings in the seventh-largest city in the U.S. With dozens of options, San Antonio has something for everyone.
River Walk and Cruises
Want to take in the sights of San Antonio? Head down to the River Walk, a 15-mile path that takes you past shops, restaurants, bars and more (pictured above). If you aren’t up for walking, take a narrated cruise to learn all about the city and see what it has to offer. The River Walk can be easily accessed from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
Historic Market Square
A one-mile walk from the convention center, the Historic Market Square is another great option for food and shopping. It contains over 100 locally-owned businesses that sell “a wide variety of products celebrating the cultural, artistic and ethnic influences of the Southwest and Mexico,” per Historic Market Square’s website.
Tower of the Americas
Get an aerial view of San Antonio and learn about the city’s history by visiting the Tower of the Americas. For just $16.50 ($13 for seniors and military), take a trip to the top of the 750-foot-tall building and Texas’ tallest observation tower, per its website. Tower of the Americas also boasts a restaurant and a bar with a stunning view.
Safety 2023 is taking place at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, from June 5 to 7. The expo floor will be open on June 5 from 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; June 6 from 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and June 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Sessions will be offered on June 5 from 8 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.; June 6 from 8 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.; and June 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Find the original article by clicking here.
US Department of Labor Impact Inspections at 20 Mines in 15 States Find 335 Violations in April 2023, Miners Exposed to 92 Serious Hazards
Identified 914 violations, including 257 significant, substantial violations since Jan. 1, 2023
The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that its Mine Safety and Health Administration completed impact inspections at 20 mines in 15 states in April 2023 and found 335 violations.
Since Jan. 1, 2023, MSHA’s inspections identified 914 violations, including 257 significant and substantial and 18 unwarrantable failure findings. An S&S violation is one reasonably likely to cause a reasonably serious injury or illness. Violations designated as unwarrantable failures occur when an inspector finds aggravated conduct that constitutes more than ordinary negligence.
The agency opens impact inspections at mines that merit increased agency attention and enforcement due to poor compliance history; previous accidents, injuries, and illnesses; and other compliance concerns. MSHA began using impact inspections after an April 2010 explosion in West Virginia at the Upper Big Branch Mine killed 29 miners.
Among the 355 violations MSHA found in April’s impact inspections were 92 significant and substantial and 5 unwarrantable failure findings. The agency completed these inspections at mines in Arkansas, Arizona, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Read more by clicking here.
PPE Fashion Show Highlights Diversity, Fit and Safety
Held on May 23 at AIHce EXP at the Phoenix Convention Center, the event showcased offerings across a variety of categories.
When it comes to the expo hall at last week’s AIHce EXP, the event had much to offer, and that includes a PPE fashion show.
Running May 22-24, the expo gave attendees to take in exhibits from more than 175 companies at the annual AIHA event, which was held at Phoenix, Ariz.’s Phoenix Convention Center.
But besides the products, there were a lot of attractions, such as the annual Monday Night Networking Reception, the Pathway Passport challenge, and 30-minute presentations at the Innovation Station.
Read more by clicking here.
Brake inspection blitz takes unsafe trucks and buses off the road
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance inspectors placed 11.3% of the trucks and buses they examined out of service for brake-related violations during a recent, unannounced inspection initiative.
On April 19, CVSA inspectors checked 6,829 commercial motor vehicles in the United States and Canada. The Brake Safety Day inspection resulted in 773 of the CMVs being taken out of service for brake violations.
The event was part of CVSA’s Operation Airbrake, a campaign conducted in partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, and Mexico’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation and National Guard.
CMV inspectors across North America are set to perform announced and unannounced brake system inspections Aug. 20-26 during CVSA’s annual Brake Safety Week, part of Brake Safety Awareness Month.
Find the original article by clicking here.
Department of Labor Identifies More Than 170 Child Labor Violations By Operators of 6 Reno-Area Sonic Drive-In Franchise Locations
SDI of Neil LLC allowed children to operate dangerous equipment, pays $71K in fines
Federal investigators have found the operator of six Nevada Sonic Drive-In locations illegally allowed 14- and 15-year-old teenagers to work more hours and at times not permitted by federal child labor regulations and assigned them to operate manual deep fryers, a task considered a hazardous occupation.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division determined SDI of Neil LLC, which operates as Sonic Drive-In, committed more than 170 violations of the child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Specifically, investigators learned the Reno-based employer allowed the young workers to operate fryers without automatic fry baskets that move food in and out of hot oil and grease, which are prohibited jobs for workers under age 16.
To resolve its child labor violations, SDI of Neil LLC and the company’s owners Taylor M. Cain, Ian N. Cain, and Quinn M. Cain paid $71,182 in civil money penalties. The division also recovered $274 in overtime back wages and liquidated damages for two young workers denied overtime pay for hours over 40 in a workweek by the employer. Investigators also determined the employer hired one employee who was then 13-years-old, which is under the legal age for employment in restaurants and other non-agricultural jobs.
Read more by clicking here.
‘Unsafe Conditions’ Persist: Dollar General Hit with $3.4 Million in Proposed Penalties After Inspections
Inspections at nine stores in Maine, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin have brought the company’s total proposed penalties since 2017 to over $21 million.
According to a news release, the inspections that resulted in combined proposed penalties of $3.4 million took place at stores in Maine, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin.
In Enfield, Maine, north of Bangor, OSHA issued citations to DG Retail LLC for five repeat violations and proposed penalties of $321,419 after it discovered access to an emergency exit was obstructed, employees could not quickly access a fire extinguisher due to obstructed aisles and fire extinguishers were not visually inspected every month, per the news release.
At six stores in North Dakota, located in Casselton, Garrison, Hillsboro, Killdeer, Minot and Tioga, Dollar General Corporation/ DG Retail, LLC received citations for 32 violations and faces proposed penalties of $2.5 million after OSHA discovered obstructed “exit routes, doors, fire extinguishers and electrical panels” and merchandise not stacked in a safe manner, the agency said.
These citations also include violations for failing to give workers PPE and trainings related to chemical handling and clean-up after OSHA discovered six workers at the Minot store had been exposed to toxic vapors in December 2022.
Read more by clicking here.
Employees Delaying Medical Care For a Variety of Reasons
Some advice for employers on how they can address this situation.
What impact has delayed care, due to the pandemic, had on employees and how can employers mitigate this?
Let’s look at a recent survey of 5,000 people conducted by Integrated Benefits Institute. Here are some of their findings:
- Less than 75% of employees are up to date on preventive screenings and immunizations.
- 58% of employees delayed necessary medical care due to cost or insurance barriers
- 42% reported delays because there wasn’t an appointment available
- 35% delayed or avoided care due to fear of getting or spreading COVID-19.
Reasons for not being up to date on preventive screenings included the belief that it wasn’t necessary because “I’m young and healthy” (17%). Others said it was due to costs/can’t afford (14%).
As for not being up to date on immunizations, the reasons listed were because they don’t like shots/don’t want them/don’t trust them (37%), and that they aren’t necessary because “I have a strong immune system” (15%).
Regardless of sociodemographics, individuals with more chronic conditions were more likely to delay care. Sixty-nine percent of individuals with 3 or more chronic conditions delayed care due cost/insurance barriers, compared to 51% with no chronic conditions. However, those with chronic conditions are also more likely to be up to date on preventive care.
Read more by clicking here.
CDC updates recommendations on building ventilation
Occupied buildings should undergo at least five clean air changes an hour, according to updated ventilation guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The agency says air changes can be accomplished via “any combination of central ventilation system, natural ventilation or additional devices that provide equivalent [air changes per hour] to your existing ventilation.” CDC explains on its website how to calculate air changes per hour.
Another updated recommendation: installing air filters with a minimum efficiency reporting value of 13 or higher. The revised guidance also addresses post-occupancy flushing of building air and details cost considerations for ventilation strategies.
CDC also added to its list of answers to FAQs, as well as revamped all of the FAQs “to include a concise answer, followed by more detail.”
Find the original article by clicking here.
ASSP to Hold SafetyFOCUS Sessions in September 2023
The sessions will take place in person and online from September 18 to 22.
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has announced the dates for the next SafetyFOCUS session.
From September 18 to 22, 2023, SafetyFOCUS will be held in-person at the AMA Washington Area Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, and virtually on Zoom, per a press release. Attendees will be able to create their own schedules and choose from one-, two- and three-day-long courses. Up to 3.5 continuing education credits can be earned if attendees register for the entire week.
Course topics include “business and leadership skills, certification preparation, fall protection, risk assessment and management, safety management systems, and comprehensive worker health,” according to the press release.
Registration is open now.
Find the original article by clicking here.
Readout: US Department of Labor Report Find Stark Gender, Age-Based Pay Inequities For Older Women, Whose Share of the Labor Force Has Increased
As the nation marks Older Americans Month, the U.S. Department of Labor welcomed U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell, Lois Frankel, Gwen Moore and Jan Schakowsky for a roundtable discussion on older women in today’s workforce and the findings of two reports by the department’s Women’s Bureau on the unique challenges they face.
Moderated by the bureau’s Director Wendy Chun-Hoon, the panel shared findings in the reports, “The Rise of Older Women Workers” and “Living on Less: Persistent Gender Disparities in Income Levels, Sources for Older Adults.”
The bureau’s Acting Deputy Director Tiffany Boiman; Justice in Aging’s Directing Attorney for Economic Security Tracey Gronniger; Christina Bradshaw-Smith, a member of the American Federation of Teachers; and Antonia Surco, a member of the National Domestic Workers Alliance also participated in the roundtable.
The “Rise of Older Women Workers” reports that while women aged 55 and older make up 10.8 percent of the U.S. labor force – nearly double their 5.8 percent share of the workforce in 1980 – their incomes continue to be lower and they are more likely to live in poverty than men of the same age.
Read more by clicking here.
Study links performance-related pay to poor health
Workers who are compensated based on their performance are at higher risk for heart disease, chronic stress and poor mental health, results of a recent study show.
Although “performance-related pay” systems can have positive outcomes, researchers at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland note that studies conducted over the past two decades have found links between these systems and poorer health. However, those studies “have been inconclusive and largely based on self-reported data, which is vulnerable to bias.”
For their study, the researchers looked at data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study, which includes medical information on physiological measures of stress, including blood pressure and stress biomarkers in blood samples.
Findings show that performance-related pay systems are associated with higher blood pressure and subpar mental health. Men, in particular, exhibited higher indicators of chronic stress.
Read more by clicking here.
Top 10 Worst States for Construction Safety
States with the weakest OSHA enforcement in terms of inspections, citations, and fines also generally had the highest injury and fatality rates, according to a survey from InsuranceRanked.
onstruction work is dangerous all across the U.S., but laborers in some states have it worse than others. To find out which states were better, or worse, InsuranceRanked analyzed all 50 states and the District of Columbia and ranked them by injury, illness, and fatality rates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and inspection, citation, and penalty data from OSHA.
The study concluded that states with the weakest OSHA enforcement in terms of inspections, citations, and fines also generally had the highest injury and fatality rates.
A note about the data: InsuranceRanked said “OSHA and BLS data for occupational safety and health is known to be full of gaps, and this is what we found, as well. We excluded four states from the ranking because they were missing more than one piece of critical data: South Dakota, North Dakota, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.”
To see a full ranking click here.
Find the original article by clicking here.
OSHA’s FY 2023 Outreach Initiatives
As part of our efforts to keep you informed of OSHA’s activities, we have attached a document that summarizes OSHA’s outreach initiatives for FY 2023. It includes a summary of key national initiatives, a listing of priority industries/topics, and a calendar of key dates. Please note: As we receive new/updated information about events, we will share it with you.
We hope this document will be a helpful tool as we continue to work together to support OSHA’s outreach initiatives.
See > https://ihmm.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/OSHA-FY2023-Outreach-Initiatives.pdf
OSHA’s Safe + Sound Campaign is a nationwide opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of the value of proactive occupational safety and health (OSH) programs in all workplaces. Mark your calendars! Safe + Sound Week will take place from August 7-13, 2023. Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. Registration for Safe + Sound Week opens in early July. We look forward to your participation!
Safe + Sound emphasizes the need for safety programs at small- and mid-sized businesses, which are more likely to have limited resources dedicated to safety. As you know, effective OSH programs can help organizations identify and manage workplace risk before they cause injury or illness, improving sustainability and the bottom line. Safety and health management systems are a critical best practice to ensure that OSH programs achieve significant results and lower risk exposure.
Halt a Hazard
Workplace hazards can emerge over time. Setting aside time to regularly identify and rank safeguards can help keep safety and health hazards under control and keep workers safe.
- Identify ONE hazard to control within your workplace.
- Brainstorm potential controls using OSHA’s Identifying Hazard Control Options: The Hierarchy of Controls.
- Choose and implement which control(s) are most effective for your workplace.
- Download your challenge coin and share that you have completed the Halt a Hazard Challenge via email or on social media using #HaltAHazard and #SafeAndSoundAtWork!
Beat the Heat
Under the OSH Act, employers are responsible for protecting workers from known hazards, including heat. Developing a heat injury and illness prevention plan is vital to keeping workers safe. Highlighting the dangers of heat is an important first step in educating workers and employers on how to prevent and recognize when heat is affecting workers’ health and safety. Since heat illness can be a medical emergency, planning and preparing for heat illness is essential to increase the chances of a positive outcome.
OSHA is sponsoring a Beat the Heat contest to raise awareness about the dangers and hazards of heat exposure in indoor and outdoor workplaces and to motivate workers, employers, and others to take action to prevent heat illness. To participate, stakeholders will create an awareness tool to increase worker and employer knowledge about hazardous heat in the workplace. The contest is open now, and submissions are due by June 9, 2023.
IHMM CSHMⓇ 2022 Salary Survey
IHMM is pleased to release its 2022 salary survey for Certified Safety and Health Managers Ⓡ [CSHMⓇ] across a broad range of position titles in the CSHMⓇ community of practice.
IHMM – 26 Fellows Are Mentors
IHMM Fellows Committee Chair Atanu Das, CHMM, is leading the effort within the IHMM Collaboration networking platform to provide instruction to the more than 75 IHMM Fellows in becoming mentors.
Given the extraordinary experience Fellows have, this is a unique opportunity for IHMM Fellows to help guide more recent certificants in their professional development activities.
IHMM’s Collaboration platform contains a “Mentor Match” module [see below at right] that allows mentors to signup designating the hours, number of mentees, subject areas, and length of time they wish to mentor – as well as allowing mentees to signup requesting assistance in specified areas. The mentor match module does the rest by matching mentors and mentees.
Recert Video #1
Recert Video #2
IHMM Recertification Videos
IHMM is pleased to release two YouTube instructional videos about navigating the IHMM recertification process. These step-by-step videos easily enable IHMM certificants to start and complete a recertification application.
While the full recertification cycle is 5 years, IHMM encourages all certificants to start a recertification application and add certification maintenance points as they are earned to make the final submission quick and easy to accomplish.
- Every CSHM and CSMP should start a recertification application now.
- Even if your recertification is years away, starting an application now and adding your accumulated points enables you to see where you are all the time and it makes it very easy when you have to file your application
IHMM Scholarship Program
The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management is pleased to have created $32,000 in academic scholarships, divided equally between $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who are also Student CHMMs, and $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who are also Student ASHMs.
IHMM seeks to foster the growth and academic success of students whose courses of education, and participation in one of our Student certifications, will lead to those students becoming fully-certified IHMM credential holders later in their professional lives. The first two IHMM Scholarships were awarded before Thanksgiving to Thomas Gerding, Student ASHM, and Ryan Bellacov, Student CHMM! Congratulations to Thomas and Ryan for being our first scholarship award winners.
Go to > https://ihmm.org/scholarship/
Retiring? IHMM Invites You to Become an Emeritus
You may have decided, after a long and successful career, to retire from active daily duty. Congratulations. That doesn’t mean you have to completely disengage from your profession. IHMM is pleased to offer Emeritus status to all certificants who will no longer be actively engaged in their communities of practice but who still want to stay in touch. Please let us know when you’re approaching that decision and we will assist you in the credential transition.
Please contact Margaret Toscano at [email protected] and she’ll be happy to help you.
National Safety Council
IHMM is a member of the National Safety Council and is pleased to bring this important information to all of its certificants.
NSC News
Study finds ‘banger bar’ can help reduce injuries among crab fishers
House committee advances truck parking act and other bills
CDC updates recommendations on building ventilation
Longwall incidents spur MSHA alert
New NSC white paper: ‘Improving Workplace Safety with Robotics’
EPA proposes revisions to chemical review process
NSC Webinars
June 8 – Do Employees Feel Safe at Work? New Data for 2023
June 15 – From Good to Great: How Visual AI Turns You Into a Safety Superstar
June 22 – The Human Side of Safety: Overcome Objections and Address Motivations to Increase Participation
June 29 – Creating a High Reliability Organization – Blending Culture & Human Performance Reliability
IHMM is a member of ASSP and is pleased to bring this important information to all of its certificants.
Registration Open – June 5-7, San Antonio
ASSP News
We Can Impact Worker Well-Being
Episode 106: What the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act Means for Safety Professionals and Employers
ASSP Joins With Other Groups in Supporting OSHA and NIOSH Funding for FY2024
ASSP Launches Online Education Series on Standards
ASSP Comments on OSHA’s Effort to Modernize VPP
ASSP Launches Online Education Series on Standards
What Is a Battery Energy Storage System and What Are the Workplace Risks?
ASSP Webinars
June 3-4 – Make Your Safety Training Stick: Improve Retention and Get Better Results
June 3 – Strategies For Safety Excellence: Advancing Safety in Your Organization and Career
June 3-4 – Electrical Safe Work Practices with Application of NFPA 70E (2021 Edition)
June 15-July 13 – ONLINE COURSE: Enterprise Risk Management for Safety Professionals
June 22 – Managing Infectious Diseases and Health Hazards in the Construction Industry
June 29 – Hand Safety When Exposed to Energized Equipment
July 6-August 3 – ONLINE COURSE: Implementing an ANSI/ASSP Z10 Management System Based on Systems Thinking
July 6 – August 3 – ONLINE COURSE: Implementing ISO 45001 Course
July 13-August 10 – ONLINE COURSE: Risk Assessment and Management for Safety Professionals
ASSP Standards News
The U.S. TAG to ANSI for ISO TC283 approved ISO 45002 and ISO 45006 as ANSI registered technical reports.
- ISO/ASSP TR 45002-2023: Occupational health and safety management systems – General guidelines for the implementation of ISO 45001:2018
- ISO/ASSP TR 45006-2023: Occupational health and safety management – Guidelines for organizations on preventing and managing infectious diseases
At this point, the adoption process is complete. We will conclude limited public review and then move forward with publication of ISO 45002 and ISO 45006 as an ANSI Registered Technical Report[s].
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SOCIETY
IHMM and HMS
The graphic to the left illustrates the relationship between IHMM and HMS. IHMM formed HMS to serve IHMM’s certificants. IHMM offers a variety of professional credentials and HMS creates education and training programs to serve the applicants and certificants of those credentials.
HMS Jobs Listings
Environmental Compliance Program Specialist Sr. – St. Louis, MO in GAC St. Louis, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Safety/Environmental Coordinator in GAC Savannah, GA., Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Environmental Compliance Program Specialist II in GAC Savannah, GA., Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Corporate Environmental Compliance Program Manager, Savannah, GA., Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Sr. Environmental Compliance Program Specialist, Dallas, TX., Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Regional Environmental Affairs Director- Midwest, Chicago, IL., Covanta
Hazardous Materials Inspector II- San José Fire Department
AIHA, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
American Industrial Hygiene Association [AIHA] an HMS training partner, has added its first of many courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs in support of IHMM certificants holding the CHMM, CHMP, CSHM, and CSMP credentials. Thank you, AIHA.
CHEMTREC, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
CHEMTREC, an HMS training partner, has had 6 courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs as reviewed and approved by the HMS Education and Training Committee, chaired by Diana Lundelius. Thank you CHEMTREC, and thank to HMS’ Education and Training Committee.
Bowen EHS, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
Bowen EHS, an HMS training partner, has had 4 courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs as reviewed and approved by the HMS Education and Training Committee, chaired by Diana Lundelius. Thank you Bowen EHS and thank to HMS’ Education and Training Committee.
Thank you Bowen EHS for contributing programs enabling IHMM certificants to engage in professional development and earn important CMPs! All three of the new Bowen EHS programs are available online and on demand.
| Daily | EPCRA Tier II Reporting | Bowen EHS | Online |
| Daily | CHMM Online Review | Bowen EHS | Online |
| Daily | Emergency Management Self-Paced PDC | Bowen EHS | Online |
| Daily | Acute Toluene Exposure Webinar | Bowen EHS | Online |
Thank you Bowen EHS for contributing programs enabling IHMM certificants to engage in professional development and earn important CMPs! All three of the new Bowen EHS programs are available online and on demand.
Easily Find Courses to Help You Pass IHMM Credential Exams
This week we add the Federation of Environmental Technologists [FET] EHMM course to the CHMM examination preparation schedule. FET is the CHMM chapter in Wisconsin and IHMM is proud to support them and help to promote their EHMM offering to IHMM’s CHMM applicants.
CDGP® Prep Course
CE-1112: CDGP® Exam Prep – Columbia Southern University – Available On Demand
CHMM® Prep Courses
Daily – CHMM® Online Review – Bowen
Daily – CHMM® Prep Course – Institute of Safety & Systems Management
Daily –Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (CHMM®) Exam Prep – SPAN Exam Prep, Division of ClickSafety
CSHM® Prep Courses
CSMP® Prep Courses
Respiratory Protection Program Management – Susan Harwood Training Grant
University of Texas Medical Branch, William J. Pate, CHMM
This training course is intended to educate participants on the requirements of developing and implementing a compliant Respiratory Protection Program. The focus of this course will be on topics related to preparation for an infectious disease pandemic. At the end of this training the attendee should be able to:
1) Manage an effective respiratory protection program through proficient application of 29 CFR 1910.134
2) Compare potential routes of exposure
3) Identify and implement potential controls (engineering, administrative, and PPE)
4) List the equipment needed to support fit testing
5) Explain the difference between qualitative and quantitative fit testing
6) Discuss the different types of respiratory protection available
7) Demonstrate correct donning/doffing of respiratory protection
This training course is 7.5 hours and participants will receive a certificate of completion that may be suitable for professional certification maintenance (CSP, CIH, CHMM, CHSP, etc.).
This course will provide 7.5 Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) contact hours. Accreditation statement: University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is approved with distinction as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by Louisiana State Nurses Association – Approver, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. LSNA Provider No. 4002176
This training is available only to employees and employers who are subject to OSHA regulatory requirements. Grant-funded training is not available to state or local government employees unless they have occupational safety & health responsibilities (e.g. occupational safety and health trainers, program managers, committee members, or employees responisble for abating unsafe and unhealthy working conditions for their organization). Registration in this course confirms that meet these conditions. This training will include the opportunity to don, doff, and fit test respiratory protection including N95, half-face, full-face, and powered air-purifying respirators. Anyone participating in this training and wanting to put on a respirator agrees that they have been medically cleared by their employer to do so in accordance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard.
The 8-hour training program is offered at various dates from March through September. For more information and registration for this FREE program go here >> https://www.utmb.edu/ehs/programs/radiation-occupational-safety-program/RPPSHTG2023
IHMM and HMS Tie Exam Preparation Together for Applicants
Every IHMM certification that requires an examination has a section of its website entitled Examination Preparation.
Connected to the Examination Preparation panel is a companion panel that is Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam.
You see the Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam panel from the CSHM site at left.
When you click on the Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam panel it takes the applicant directly to the HMS site where all CSHM prep courses may be found and chosen.
If you want your prep courses on the HMS platform so it can be found by IHMM credential applicants, contact Gene Guilford at [email protected]
HMS Launches New Certified Safety Management Practitioner® [CSMP®] Exam Prep Course
The Hazardous Materials Society is pleased to announce that it is launching a new CSMP examination prep course. The CSMP prep course follows the launch in 2021 of the successful CSHM prep course in an agreement with VUBIZ.
The CSMP exam prep course is available on demand online, and is linked in the schedule below as well as on the IHMM CSMP website and under the CSMP hotbutton CSMP PREP on the HMS Education and Training webpage.
HMS Makes Finding Courses to Earn CMPs Easy
Every year more than 1,600 IHMM certificants have to recertify their credentials, evidenced their continuing commitment to improvement and learning to elevate their professional credential.
Earning Certification Maintenance Points [CMPs] is illustrated under Recertification of Your Credential, that includes the Recertification Claims Manual – Appendix A, that details all of the ways a certificant may earn CMPs > https://ihmm.org/recertification-claims/
Having mastered that manual, how does an IHMM certificant find courses to earn CMPs?
HMS has made that simple and easy.
- Go to https://hazmatsociety.org/education-training/
- Scroll down until you see a row of buttons…click on the CMPs button
The system will then generate all of the courses on the HMS E&T platform with IHMM CMPs already attached.
The next developments by the HMS E&T committee will refine available courses’ CMPs by individual credential!
RCM&D Professional Liability Insurance
HMS is proud to have partnered with RCM&D to be able to offer an outstanding comprehensive professional liability insurance program to IHMM certificants. Here, you will find information about this important program offering Environmental Consultants and Engineers Professional Liability coverage. This coverage is intended to add protection for loss stemming from actual or alleged negligent acts, errors and omissions in performing professional services.
For more information see > https://hazmatsociety.org/professional-liability-insurance/
Member Benefits of Hazardous Materials Society
99% of IHMM certificants are aware of the Hazardous Materials Society, which we appreciate. IHMM established the Hazardous Materials Society in order to support and provide services to IHMM certificants.
Did You Know?
Your company’s membership dues for Associate Membership in the Hazardous Materials Society (HMS) are 100% tax-deductible and your participation directly supports scholarship and education/training opportunities for professionals working in hazmat and EHS. Joining as an Associate Member expresses your commitment and your company’s leadership in giving back to our professional community. Join today to claim your tax deduction for the 2020 tax year while expressing your company’s professional affiliation and accessing tools for your marketing and business development plans.
To learn more about what HMS is doing now and what they are planning for the future, please see the new Member Benefits page here.
Donate to HMS
One of the most important projects of the Hazardous Materials Society is our Scholarship Program.
HMS wants to make it as easy as possible for those who cannot always afford to participate in pursuing certification, or keeping up with professional development, or attending great conferences and receiving outstanding training. HMS does not solicit contributions from the general public. HMS does ask IHMM’s certificants and their companies and our education and training vendors to consider a contribution.
Here, through your generosity, you can make a difference in promoting the ability of those who can afford it least to become participants in our communities of practice.
It’s never too late to make a difference, so don’t let this opportunity to make a difference pass you by. Please consider a tax-deductible donation of $250, $500 or what you can to help build HMS’s effort to help others in our communities of practice.
Applications for the 2023 HMS Scholarship Awards Now Open
The HMS scholarship award is given annually to undergraduate and graduate students whose academic program and research studies have the potential to address the most serious issues in handling hazardous materials, dangerous goods, environmental issues, health & safety challenges. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in accredited U.S. academic institutions.
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT SCHOLARSHIP AWARD APPLICATIONS IS December 1, 2023. All submissions and associated materials must be submitted using the online form.
Scholarship Winners Will Be Announced at the HMS Annual Meeting.
For More Information, Visit > https://hazmatsociety.org/scholarship/
Columbia Southern University
The Hazardous Materials Society [HMS] is a partner of Columbia Southern University. Columbia Southern University is an online university based in Orange Beach, Alabama, that strives to change and improve lives through higher education by enabling students to maximize their professional and personal potential.
A subsidiary of Columbia Southern Education Group, CSU offers online degree programs at the associate, bachelor, master, doctorate or certificate levels in a multitude of areas such as occupational safety and health, fire administration, criminal justice, business administration, human resource management, health care administration and more. CSU also features undergraduate and graduate certificate programs to provide focused training in specialized areas for adult learners.
Click on the CSU graphic at left and learn more about the professional development and degree program opportunities at CSU.
IHMM CONFERENCES FOR 2023
IHMM will attend and support a number of conferences and trade shows throughout 2023, virtually as well as in-person as COVID issues allow. Below are some of the conferences IHMM will support in 2023.
Are there conferences you believe IHMM should attend that do not appear here? If so, let us know! Send an email to [email protected] and tell us what conferences we should attend.
41st Annual College & University Hazardous Material Management Conference
Corvallis, OR
August 6-9, 2023
National Safety Council Congress & Expo
New Orleans, LA
October 23-25, 2023
IHMM-HMS EVENTS CALENDAR
IHMM has a companion organization for which education and training programs are presented and delivered. The Hazardous Materials Society education and training website can be found here.
9210 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 470
Rockville, Maryland, 20850
www.ihmm.org | [email protected]
Phone: 301-984-8969 | Fax: 301-984-1516