OSHA’s Expanded Injury, Illness Reporting Rule in Effect Now

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has introduced a pivotal update to its injury and illness reporting rule, now in effect as of January 1, 2024. This significant modification marks a crucial step forward for employers, particularly those operating in high-hazard industries. The revised rule expands the scope of data submission requirements, placing a strong emphasis on the electronic submission of detailed injury and illness records. This change signifies OSHA's ongoing commitment to enhancing workplace safety through increased transparency and accountability. Far from being merely procedural, this updated rule represents a strategic evolution in the methodology of collecting, analyzing, and utilizing workplace safety data. By compelling a more comprehensive and accessible reporting system, OSHA aims to fortify its efforts in preventing workplace accidents and health incidents. It is imperative for employers to grasp the intricacies of this new rule to ensure compliance and, importantly, to foster a safer and more informed work environment.

Background of OSHA's Reporting Rules

The evolution of OSHA's injury and illness reporting requirements reflects a dynamic response to changing workplace needs and technological advancements. Initially, OSHA's rules mandated employers to document and report workplace injuries and illnesses. This was crucial for identifying hazardous trends and formulating preventive strategies. These requirements were foundational in OSHA’s mission to ensure safe and healthy working conditions.

The introduction of electronic reporting marked a significant change, aiming to make the process more efficient and data more accurate. However, the initial requirement was applicable only to establishments with 250 or more employees, thus limiting comprehensive data collection to larger employers.

Recognizing the need for broader data from high-hazard industries, OSHA has gradually lowered this threshold, expanding the scope of required reporting. This progression underscores OSHA's commitment to adapt its regulations in response to evolving workplace environments. By lowering the reporting threshold, OSHA has increased data collection from a wider range of employers, enhancing its ability to analyze and respond to workplace safety issues.

This background underscores the significance of OSHA's latest rule change. The new requirement is not just an update; it's a strategic move to capture a more detailed picture of workplace safety across a broader spectrum of industries.

Details of the New Rule

The recent rule introduced by OSHA, effective January 1, 2024, represents a significant update in reporting requirements for high-hazard industry employers. Notably, the threshold for mandatory reporting has been reduced from establishments with 250 employees to those with 100 or more. This change broadens the scope of compliance, bringing more workplaces under the ambit of stringent safety reporting.

Under this rule, affected establishments are required to electronically submit detailed injury and illness data. This includes information from OSHA Form 300 (Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses) and Form 301 (Injury and Illness Incident Report), along with the previously required Form 300A (Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses).

A key feature of this updated rule is the obligation for establishments to incorporate their legal company name in their submissions, thereby enhancing data traceability and accuracy. OSHA intends to publish a portion of this data on its website. The objective is to foster transparency and enable stakeholders, including employees, researchers, and the public, to make informed decisions based on a company's safety record.

Employers in states with OSHA-approved plans are also expected to adhere to similar mandates. These state plans can utilize OSHA’s website for data submission, promoting consistency in data collection and analysis across states.

This expanded rule is poised to significantly impact workplace safety. By lowering the employee threshold for reporting and increasing transparency, OSHA seeks to cultivate a more proactive safety culture among employers, ultimately aiming to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses.

Implications for Employers

The implementation of OSHA’s expanded reporting rule has significant implications for employers, particularly those in high-hazard industries. Employers now face the challenge of adapting their reporting processes to comply with the new requirements. The reduction in the employee threshold for reporting means that a larger number of employers must now undertake the task of electronically submitting detailed injury and illness records.

This change necessitates a robust system for accurate record-keeping and data management. Employers must ensure that they are capturing all necessary details in their injury and illness logs and are prepared to submit this information electronically. This may require updates to existing systems or the implementation of new ones, as well as training for staff responsible for these tasks.

Moreover, with some of the data becoming publicly accessible, employers need to be cognizant of the potential impact on their public image and employee relations. Transparency in safety records could influence stakeholder perceptions, including current and potential employees, customers, and business partners.

Employers must also remain vigilant about the protection of sensitive information. While enhancing transparency, it is essential to safeguard personal employee data from public disclosure. Navigating these new requirements will require a balanced approach, emphasizing both compliance and confidentiality.

Data Privacy and Public Accessibility

OSHA's decision to make certain injury and illness data publicly accessible marks a significant step towards enhanced transparency. This initiative empowers stakeholders to assess a company's commitment to safety, promoting a culture of accountability. However, it also brings to the forefront concerns about data privacy, especially in relation to sensitive employee information. To mitigate these concerns, OSHA has put in place stringent measures to protect personal identifiable information. Employers are thus tasked with the dual responsibility of maintaining transparency while safeguarding employee privacy, a balance that is essential not only for legal compliance but also for upholding trust within the workforce and the broader community.

The enactment of OSHA's expanded injury and illness reporting rule is a landmark in the evolution of workplace safety regulations. By lowering the threshold for reporting and enhancing the transparency of safety records, this rule underscores the agency's commitment to reducing workplace hazards and promoting a culture of safety. It challenges employers to elevate their safety practices and encourages a proactive approach to injury and illness prevention. As we adapt to these changes, the ultimate goal remains clear: to create safer work environments where every employee's well-being is prioritized, ultimately leading to healthier, more productive workplaces nationwide.

The Evolution of EHS in 2023: Embracing Technology for a Safer, More Sustainable Future

In today's rapidly evolving world, Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) remains a pivotal area for organizations globally. The year 2023 stands out as a milestone in the EHS landscape, marked by the seamless fusion of innovative technologies into EHS practices. This blog post offers a comprehensive look at how these technological strides, ranging from advanced software to sophisticated wearable devices, are transforming the EHS sector. We will unearth insights from industry experts, discuss significant technological impacts, and outline the emerging trends that are defining the direction of EHS in 2023 and beyond.

The Rise of Technology in EHS

2023 has been a landmark year for the integration of cutting-edge technology in the field of Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS). This technological revolution is fundamentally changing how EHS professionals approach their work, offering new tools and methods to enhance safety and sustainability practices.

One of the most notable advancements is the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI technologies are being utilized for predictive modeling, risk management, and compliance, providing EHS professionals with powerful tools to anticipate and mitigate potential hazards before they occur. This predictive capability of AI, coupled with its ability to analyze large data sets, has proven invaluable in improving workplace safety and environmental sustainability.

The implementation of EHS software has also seen a surge. These software solutions are crucial in helping businesses manage complex safety programs, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that might lack the resources for extensive EHS management. Moreover, EHS software facilitates efficient ESG reporting, a growing necessity for organizations across the globe. With these tools, businesses can more easily track and report on their environmental and safety impacts, an essential aspect in today's increasingly regulated corporate world.

Wearable technology is another area where significant strides have been made. From smartwatches to advanced sensors, wearables are empowering workers with real-time data about their work environment, enhancing their ability to stay safe and productive. These devices are not only useful in monitoring health parameters but also in providing immediate feedback on safety practices, a crucial factor in preventing accidents and ensuring worker wellbeing.

In sum, the rise of technology in EHS is a testament to the ongoing evolution of this critical field. By embracing these technological advancements, EHS professionals are better equipped to face the challenges of the modern workplace, ensuring safety and sustainability are at the forefront of their operations.

Expert Insights on Technological Influence

The transformation of EHS through technology is not just theoretical but is being actively shaped by the insights and experiences of industry leaders. Dr. John Howard, the director of the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, highlights the impact of diverse technologies such as algorithmic management tools, robotic devices, and wearable sensor technologies. He emphasizes that these advancements challenge EHS professionals to learn new skills for assessing and controlling emerging risks.

Amanda Engstrom, EHS Program Manager at Advance Auto Parts, points out the dual benefits of emerging technologies in EHS. Firstly, she notes the ease of assessment and testing, particularly in ergonomics, facilitated by wearable devices that can track movement and provide immediate feedback. Secondly, Engstrom underscores the improvement in training strategies through augmented reality and gamification, which enhance engagement and knowledge retention.

Zach Pucillo, EHS Compliance Manager at KPA, identifies several key trends to watch. These include the growing importance of EHS software for small and medium-sized businesses, the increasing necessity of ESG reporting, the integration of mobile technologies in the workforce, and the future potential of AI in hazard alerts and ergonomic improvements.

Helen Harris, Health & Safety Center of Excellence Leader at WestRock, adds a nuanced perspective. She acknowledges that while technology can simplify certain aspects of EHS work, it also adds complexity, particularly in data gathering and analysis. Harris emphasizes the need for EHS professionals to develop skills in data analysis to prioritize improvement efforts effectively.

These expert opinions collectively paint a picture of an EHS landscape in transition, marked by the adoption of new technologies and the evolving role of EHS professionals.

Legislative Impact and Compliance

The landscape of EHS in 2023 is also being reshaped by legislative developments. Globally and in the U.S., new regulations are setting precedents that profoundly affect EHS practices. In the United States, for instance, California’s recent environmental disclosure laws demand stringent compliance and reporting standards. Similarly, the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) broadens sustainability reporting requirements, significantly impacting companies operating in the EU. These regulations highlight the growing emphasis on transparency and accountability in environmental and safety matters.

Understanding and adapting to these legislative changes is crucial for EHS professionals. They must swiftly align their practices with these new standards to remain compliant. Moreover, these regulations are not just about adherence; they present an opportunity for organizations to improve their EHS practices, leveraging legislative requirements as a catalyst for positive change. Staying ahead in this changing regulatory environment is key to maintaining operational excellence and upholding organizational reputation.

Emerging Trends in EHS for 2023

The EHS landscape in 2023 is marked by transformative trends. A key development is the EHS function’s growing role in driving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, reflecting a deeper integration of EHS and sustainability goals.

EHS software is increasingly being used to manage ESG responsibilities, helping professionals efficiently handle complex data management and reporting tasks. Additionally, operationalizing ESG is gaining focus, moving from strategic visions to actionable plans involving all levels of employees.

Furthermore, EHS programs are adopting a holistic approach to worker wellness, encompassing both mental health and physical well-being. This shift recognizes the comprehensive nature of workplace health.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives are also becoming integral to safety programs, ensuring practices cater to diverse workforce needs.

With stricter ESG regulations emerging, companies are ramping up investments in data management tools to meet compliance demands.

These trends underscore a period of significant evolution in EHS, where technology, regulatory changes, and sustainability intersect.

The Role of Gamification in EHS Training

Gamification is revolutionizing EHS training in 2023. By incorporating gaming designs into training scenarios, EHS professionals are making safety education more engaging and memorable. This approach includes digital safety games where players create avatars and complete challenges, as well as traditional games like cards and board games designed for hazard recognition and mitigation. Such interactive methods are proving effective in improving learning experiences and employee engagement in safety practices, showcasing a creative blend of entertainment and education in EHS training.

Musculoskeletal Pain the Primary Health Risk to American Workers

Several studies exploring workplace injuries, chronic conditions, and American health has identified musculoskeletal pain as the primary risk to employees. Musculoskeletal pain can be caused by a variety of different factors, but poses risks to almost every industry in blue collar America. Scientists, and employers are working diligently to identify the root causes of the chronic illness and help industries prevent further distress. 

Statistics suggest that every 1 in 2 American employees experience some form of chronic musculoskeletal complications, supported by surveys sampling more than 252 million citizens.The industries with the highest risk of complications include software businesses, utility management, retail, transportation, hospitality, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and more. These industries require employees to be sitting or standing for long periods of time, and sometimes also require heavy lifting that can pose risk to their musculoskeletal stability. Leading experts relate the hard manual labor and sedentary position of the body over long periods of time as some of the main causes of this specific injury. 

What is the Musculoskeletal System

The musculoskeletal system includes the bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, connective tissues, cartilage, and tendons. This system gives our human bodies structure and supports movement of the limbs. The MSK system is vital to a person’s mobility and can change with them over time. The overall endocrine system is stimulated by exercise and interacted with via biochemical signaling passed through other organs in the body. 

5 Main Functions of the MSK System

• Movement: The skeletal system pulls on bones causing movement at the joints. Facial skeletal muscles pull on soft tissues resulting in facial expressions. All the movement is caused by the respiratory system introducing oxygen into the blood supporting the systems, enabling the muscles to breathe.

• Support: Muscles in the system support the internal organs, but are prone to weaknesses with age or injury. Prolonged weakness to the system's muscles can result in organ displacement.

• Protection: Skeletal muscles protect vital organs and cushion exterior physical impacts taken by the body. 

• Heat Generation: Heat is a waste product of body metabolism which is maintained by keeping an internal body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Shivering is a major control of the MSK system to regulate the body temperature and generate heat when the internal body temperatures fall below optimal levels. 

• Blood Circulation: Cardiac muscles pump the heart and control the body’s blood circulation to vital organs and other areas of the body. 

“Ergonomic injuries” are those that affect the MKS system. These injuries are the result of overuse, improper use, or exterior inflictions to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or hard structures. Symptoms of MKS injuries include but are not limited to the inability to effectively use limbs or muscles to complete tasks, soreness, bruising, muscle tears, and bone fractures. These symptoms often accompany the hazards associated with sitting and working at a desk, impacting the employee over long periods. The study also analyzed the resulting economic expenditure associated with MSK-related injuries and discovered its national costs have more than doubled over the last decade. 

Associated Costs of Musculoskeletal Injuries

The cost to treat MSK is one of the third largest industries in the United States healthcare system, totaling more than $600 billion annually.Associated costs to treat MSK injuries include medical appointments, expert referrals, and leave from work. The injuries also have to be treated with various medications, physical therapy, and work limitations after being diagnosed. These costs fall predominantly on the employee who ends up having to take the excess leave from employment and source the kind of treatments that best fit their situation. Employers also take the brunt of any MSK injury costs by involving their insurances and liability officials. 

The Hinge study also acknowledged that the driving factor behind increasing costs is the undeniable connection between MSK and mental health treatments, as affected employees often use double the average worker’s sick days.  The average worker misses more than 8 days of work, while employees experiencing symptoms of MSK complications often miss upwards of 13 average days annually to deal with their treatment and mental health. The sheer absence of millions of workers for extended durations of time throughout the annual work year alone costs businesses and the greater US economy millions of dollars.

Impacts of New MSK Understanding 

The impacts of MSK are affecting many aspects of employee health and welfare in the United States, as medical costs and health inequities continue to increase. Access to MSK-associated healthcare, medicines, and affordable treatments have continued to drive up prices, far surpassing the economic costs shared by employers to treat other ailments like heart disease ($309 billion), cancer ($243 billion), and diabetes ($188 billion). It is no surprise that medical costs, insurance, and access to treatments have all become a much larger burden on the lower and middle working class of America.

The nuances of MSK and its lack of study have also prevented many employer insurance companies from effectively covering their employee’s risk of MSK exposure and rehabilitation. The lack of understanding has only recently resulted in studies highlighting the close relation to employee mental health welfare. Chronic pain can often intensify mental challenges resulting in increased anxiety and depression, worsening the MSK symptoms. Many health insurances fail to fill the gap in social and behavioral support needed to recuperate from mental health symptoms associated with the effects of chronic MSK in the workplace. 

Solutions recommended by the Hinge report and other health professionals suggest filling the gaps in coverage by addressing issues with physical recovery, behavioral support, and medical services. Remote care and support are ultimately important in treating the patient’s physical self-care and mental health. With digital accessibility at an all-time high, connecting patients to health professionals is easier than ever, and acquiring the kind of frequent care needed to recover from MSK complications entirely. 

OSHA’s Beat the Heat Contest to Further Temperature Hazard Prevention

Every year companies face challenges during the summer related directly to temperature and heat based injuries, with dozens of employees facing death and severe heat related illnesses every year in the United States. Just last year there were almost 2,000 reported injuries and illnesses related to environmental heat. States in the southwestern United States often face average summer temperatures well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, subjecting construction and other outdoor industries to dangerous conditions. 

Employers all over the country have already started preparing for the start of summer, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed several educational resources, regulations, and aids to enhance employee safety. Some techniques OSHA has used to help prevent employee related heat injuries while at work include crafting temperature-illness prevention plans, teaching materials, and ensuring workers have access to things like shade and water. This year OSHA has also launched a ‘Beat the Heat’ contest to incentivize and reward industries taking the necessary steps to prevent employee injuries. 

The ‘Beat the Heat’ Contest

The ‘Beat the Heat’ Contest was started by OSHA this year to uncover more resources and further raise awareness of the risks employees and employers will face this summer. For the contest employers will submit any tools and resources they are implementing to contribute to employee education and work safety regarding heat hazards. The purpose of the contents is industry and public awareness related to the dangers of excessive heat exposure, and to motivate all entities to prevent heat illnesses from occurring. 

A panel of OSHA and federal agency workers will form a judgment panel to decide on a winner of the contest. All members of the panel will have some expertise in relevant heat related subject matter and judge based on the how well the submissions:

• Identify heat risk to workers

• Provide informative messages

• Utilize creative communication methods

• Create engagement with employers, employees, and relevant stakeholders to work together forming effective communications concerning the hazardous risks of heat exposure in the workplace. 

• Apply effective communication and message strategies to be accessible and easily understood by all workers, employers, and relevant stakeholders. 

• Consider the geographic significance of the employment industry sector

Award Categories will include:

• Most Innovative

• Most Creative

• Boldest Message

• Best Non-English Submission

• Highlighting Indoor Heat Hazards

• Highlighting Young Workers

The employee industries will have until June 9, 2023 to submit their entries into the contest, and winners will be determined shortly thereafter. 

Heat-Illness Resources and Education

Heat stress is one of the most commonly reported injuries by workers exposed to extreme heat conditions on the job. Heat stress can result in a variety of complications including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat rashes. High temperatures can also increase the risk of workplace accidents by causing sweaty palms, foggy protective eyewear, and disorientation. Another commonly reported injury is a variety of surface burns from the sun, and from contact with metal surfaces left in direct sunlight. 

Many workers and industries have exposed areas of risk when discussing heat related illnesses and injury. Workers at risk of heat stress include industries that contact the outdoors including hot environments including firefighters, bakeries, farmers, construction workers, miners, boiler room technicians, factory employees, and many others. 

These workers are at a much higher risk when they are overweight, over the age of 65, have heart disease, have high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat exposure. 

Types of Heat Related Illnesses 

• Heat Stroke

• The most serious heat-related illness that occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. The body’s temperature will continue to rise until the sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down, causing permanent disability or death if the person is left untreated. 

• Heat Exhaustion

• The body’s response to excessive loss of water and salt, most likely through excessive sweating. This will most commonly affect the elderly and people with underlying health conditions that are working in hot environments. 

• Rhabdomyolysis

• A medical condition associated with heat stress and prolonged physical exertion in high temperatures. Rhabdo causes the rapid breakdown of and death of muscle releasing large quantities of electrolytes and protein into the bloodstream. This condition can result in irregular heart rhythms, seizures, and kidney damage.

• Heat Syncope

• A fainting episode or unusual dizziness often associated with standing too long or sudden elevation changes of the head above the body. Factors that can exacerbate this condition are dehydration and lack of acclimatization. 

• Heat Cramps

• Usually affect individuals who often sweat profusely during physical exertion or strenuous activity. Sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture levels creating painful muscle cramps, also an indication of the early stages of heat exhaustion.

• Heat Rash

• A skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during high temperatures and humid conditions. 

All of these conditions should be completely addressed by employer heat prevention plans, and all employees should be fully educated about the risks and early symptom signs related to each heat related illness. 

Heat-Illness Prevention Methods

Planning and supervision are two factors that can significantly reduce heat related illness and injury to employees while at work. Employers should develop a written plan to prevent heat-illnesses from happening so employees have the highest level of safety and awareness.

Prevention Plans should include:

• Who will provide daily oversight?

• How will new workers develop heat tolerance?

• Temporary workers may be more susceptible to heat and require closer supervision.

• Workers returning from leave  (more than two weeks) may be at increased risk.

• How will the employer ensure first aid is adequate and the protocol for summoning medical assistance in situations beyond first-aid is effective?

• How will heat stress be measured?

• How to respond to the National Weather Service’ heat advisories?

• How to determine if the total heat stress is hazardous?

• What training will be provided to workers and supervisors?

Heat conditions can change rapidly and must require day-to-day supervision to ensure all the policies and prevention plans effectively do their job to benefit employees. Supervisory individuals at a work site should be responsible for constantly monitoring and implementing employer heat plans as conditions change throughout the day, and ideally the individual should also be on site where the workers are. 

Train Derailment in Ohio Threatens State’s Environmental Health

A massive ecological disaster is currently underway in East Palestine Ohio after a severe train derailment releases a variety of different chemicals into the environment. Scientists have been able to identify several of these chemicals released from the train cars including vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, and isobutylene. 

Health officials are on high alert because many of the harmful chemicals have been known to cause a variety of harm to human health including irritation, breathing difficulties, cancer, and eye damage. The alarm continues to rise as the full breadth of the disaster continues to unfold, raising major concerns about the severity of exposure and contamination resulting from the incident. 

After the initial derailment of the 150 car freight train occurred, authorities decided to burn some of the spilled chemicals to avoid any potential explosions. The chemical burning has sparked additional concerns regarding human and environmental health for the greater portion of eastern Ohio, as the contaminants have now been observed entering the local atmosphere and essential resources like waterways and nearby farms.  

5 Toxic Chemicals Identified Around Derailment

Residents of the Palestine Ohio area have been told it is safe to return home after the initial assessments of the impacted area, however questions still remain over the extent of exposure to the region’s resources and additional safety concerns surrounding the chemical burning. Scientists are working to determine the level of exposure to the soil, air, and water. They have already been able to identify at least 5 different contaminants released by the train derailment. 

1. Vinyl Chloride: This compound is a known carcinogen, observable as a colorless flammable gas used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) components. PVC is the plastic material used in many different types of packing materials, electronics, medical supplies, and construction products. Extended exposure to vinyl chloride can result in drowsiness, disorientation, extremity numbing, nausea, and eventually cancer. This chemical is also a culprit of severe eye and skin irritation, among many of the initial reports from affecting individuals. Vinyl chloride has also been recorded causing extensive liver damages to those with long term exposure able to seep into soil and pollute groundwater resources. 

2. Butyl acrylate: This colorless liquid chemical is also used to produce various types of plastics, polymers, resins, and material coatings. Butyl acrylate is colorless with a fruity odor causing irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tracts after long exposures. 

3. Isobutylene: A colorless gas utilized in plastic production for packing materials and resins. Exposure to isobutylene causes dizziness and headaches.The shipping company transporting this company reported in an inventory briefing that the cells carrying this chemical had no breaches, although it has still been observed in the scientist’s environmental assessment surveys. 

4. Ethylene glycol: A synthetic compound used in components of paint, ink, hydraulic brake fluid, and antifreeze compounds. Exposure to ethylene glycol has been recorded causing irritation to eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tracts. 

5. Ethylhexyl acrylate: This colorless liquid is used to produce plastics and polymer compounds. Any person exposed can experience irritation to their eyes and skin as well as nausea and sore throats. 

Experts Criticize Disaster Response

Most of the country has been kept in the dark regarding the massive derailment, and many experts are now highly skeptical concerning the actual response from county officials and site surveys. The derailment was overshadowed in the news by sightings of rogue balloons thought to be of Chinese origin over the continental USA, and the superbowl. As more information and public highlighting of the events happening in the Ohio town reach the rest of the country, people are demanding more cohesive explanations regarding how officials are handling the spill. 

So far the conclusions are unsure if officials have done enough to study the effects and potential concerns for immediate and long term impacts the chemical spill could pose to human and environmental health. Evidently there has been a lot of testing and safety discussions since the initial accident, however there has not been any formal reports outlining the comprehensive actions taken to address the contamination concerns and consequences. 

Other expert scientists have also drawn concerns to the potential pollutants that may have been created as a byproduct of the derailment and fire. When some of the identified chemicals are burned they can produce byproducts known as dioxins which are extremely harmful and toxic substances. 

Ohio’s Environmental Protection Agency has stated they will be continuing to monitor and survey the quality of Palestine’s air, soil, and water however they have not identified if they will also be testing for the harmful chemical byproducts adding to further criticism. 

The dioxins are heavy sticky compounds able to settle on people’s properties and tracked inside their homes, creating health hazards after being inhaled or ingested. These toxic compounds by products also do not break down easily and can sometimes persist for decades.

Environmental Damages

Initial estimates have been updated to suggest the freight train derailment is responsible for more than 44,000 animal deaths. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) estimates the deaths account for more than 38,000 minnows, plus more than 5,000 additional species that include fish, amphibians, crayfish, and macroinvertebrates. 

Shortly after the derailment officials declared it unsafe to enter waterways in the area unless prepared with specialized protective gear and equipment. Residents reported hundreds if not thousands of fish washing up on the shores of the rivers and streams further downstream from the incident, although officials have observed fish returning to the initial areas closer to where the incident happened. 

Hazardous trains are also required to be fitted with specialized automatic braking systems that would allow trains to brake faster potentially reducing the extent of damage a derailment can cause. Companies are always looking for ways to add more cars to their trains, inadvertently increasing the risk of derailment.