Paterson Contractors Settle with OSHA for $215,000 for Safety Violations

Two related North Jersey construction contractor companies – Primetime Construction LLC and its subsidiary Primetime Contractors LLC of Paterson – have agreed to pay $215,000 in penalties and undertake several significant safety measures to resolve numerous safety violations found at five Paterson construction worksites in 2021, as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Labor.

New Report Reviews Evidence on Long COVID Diagnosis, Risk, Symptoms, and Functional Impact for Patients

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine presents conclusions about Long-term COVID diagnosis, symptoms, and impact on daily function — including that Long-term COVID can cause more than 200 symptoms and that a positive COVID-19 test is not necessary for making a Long COVID diagnosis.

The EPA Final Rule on Methylene Chloride

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule in April 2024 significantly restricting the use of methylene chloride due to its health risks. This analysis examines the rule's impact on workers and potential workers' compensation claims.

Unions Sue New Jersey to Close Smoking Loophole

The United Auto Workers (UAW) and Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) have filed a lawsuit against New Jersey to eliminate a controversial exemption in the Smoke-Free Air Act. This exemption allows continued smoking in Atlantic City casinos, exposing tens of thousands of workers to secondhand smoke and its associated health risks.

$10 Million Punitive Damage Award for Workplace Discrimination Upheld

Unlike the NJ workers' compensation claims, there is no cap on punitive damages available for claims under the NJ Law Against Discrimination.

California's WVPP Legislation: A Potential Benefit for Workers and Industry?

California's Senate Bill 553 (SB 553), which mandates a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) for most employers by July 1, 2024, has a primary focus on employee safety. However, it might also have a secondary benefit – reduced workers' compensation insurance costs.

Exposed to "Forever Chemicals": NJ Workers' Compensation for PFAS Illness

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," are a growing concern in the workplace. These man-made chemicals are nearly impossible to break down and can build up in the body over time. Unfortunately, some New Jersey workers are facing serious health consequences due to PFAS exposure.