Preparing for Working In Cold

Today's post is shared from  John Howard, M.D., Director, NIOSH cdc.gov/niosh

Don’t assume there is no need to prepare for working safely in the cold this year, because of the moderate temperatures in much of the country so far. According to the National Weather Service, the long-range weather forecast predicts chillier temperatures than average in January and February in the Southern Plains and the Southeast. Cold weather can bring on health emergencies for people who may be susceptible as a result of their working environment, such as those who work outdoors or in an area that is poorly insulated or without heat.

NJ company cited by OSHA for willfully exposing workers to diacetyl

A Somerset County New Jersey flavoring and fragrance manufacturer exposed workers to respiratory and other workplace safety and health hazards. These exposures have created a new wave of occupation litigation by injured workers and their families.

Employer Permitted to Use Facebook Photos to Challenge Injured Workers Claims Without Prior Notice

An employer was permitted to utilize photographs taken from Claimant's public Facebook as impeachment evidence without prior notice to Claimant. Public Facebook photographs of Claimant holding her grandson with her injured arm and hand as impeachment evidence against Claimant.

The Florida Court Declines Review of Padgett

Today's guest post is authored by The Honorable David Langham is the Deputy Chief Judge of Compensation Claims for the Florida Office of Judges of Compensation Claims and Division of Administrative Hearings. Contact him at david_langham@doah.state.fl.us. It is shared from his blog lojcc.blogspot.com/

In a brief order dated December 22, 2015, the Florida Supreme Court declined to review Padgett v. State of Florida. This saga began with a Miami Circuit Judge presiding over a case involving an injured worker, Cortes, and his employer, Velda Farms. Those two resolved their differences, but the Florida Workers' Advocates (FWA) and Workers' Injury Law and Advocacy Group (WILAG) had "intervened" in the case, meaning they also became parties.

Should Workers' Compensation Be In The Wellness Business?

A recent study indicate that wellness programs are exceptionally important. Employers and workers' compensation insurance companies would be wise to follow this initiative.

One out of every four dollars employers pay for health care is tied to unhealthy lifestyle choices or conditions like smoking, stress and obesity, despite the fact that most large employers have workplace wellness programs.

US Drone Registration Now Open - Free For First 30 days

There has been a lot of interest expressed in the workers' compensation arena over drone use for both occupational work  and surveillance. Last year I took a hands-on course offered by the International Center of Photography (ICP) NYC on how to fly a drone. I can really understand the concerns over the safety, even with the most sophisticated models. It looks a lot easier than it is.

College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers - Class of 2016

The following distinguished lawyers who were elected as
Fellows of the College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in the Class of 2016