DOL wants you to know ... there's an app for that

They may never compete with the popularity of Google Maps, but the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is getting in on the smartphone apps game. First, the DOL launched a mobile Timesheet app in May to help employees independently track their hours. Since then, they've rolled out an OSHA Heat Safety Tool and a Labor Statistics app.

While somewhat controversial (because it relies on the accuracy of the user), the Timesheet app lets employees track the hours they've worked and determine the hours they're owed. The app also provides links to web pages of the DOL's Wage and Hour Division. Ultimately, it could make employers more accountable for maintaining accurate employment records, especially if their records are called into question in a Wage and Hour Division investigation. The DOL is quick to emphasize, however, that the app is designed as a reference tool only, and that it doesn't include every possible situation that comes up in the workplace.

The OSHA Heat Safety Tool lets you calculate the heat index for your worksite and display a risk level to workers, based on the results. At the same time, you can get reminders about the proper measures for protecting workers from heat-related illnesses -- from scheduling rest breaks to monitoring each other for signs of heat distress.

And finally, the Labor Statistics app is a great little resource for perusing the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Employment and Training Administration, including Unemployment Rate, Consumer Price Index, Average Hourly Earnings and more.

It remains to be seen how popular these apps will be among employers, but the DOL deserves credit for entering this technological arena. As Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis says,

"The Labor Department is continuously exploring how to share important information using the fastest, simplest, most wide-reaching means available ..."

DOL wants you to know ... there's an app for that

It's hotter than blazes! How to protect workers when temperatures soar

Today's post comes from G.Neil's HR News Weekly:

For much of the country this summer, daily highs in the 80s, 90s -- and even 100s -- are the norm. Record heat is gripping the nation, leaving outdoor workers vulnerable to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis, along with other experts, urges all employers to take the proper precautions to protect workers from intense heat.

Some of the recommendations:

=> Devise a work site plan that outlines prevention measures and ensures that medical services are available to respond to a potential emergency
=> Provide ample amounts of water at work sites and remind workers to drink small amounts frequently (every 15 minutes)
=>Schedule rest breaks throughout work shifts and provide shaded or air-conditioned rest areas near work sites
=>Allow new workers to get used to the extreme heat, gradually increasing the work load over a week's time
=>As much as possible, schedule strenuous tasks earlier in the day

Remember: The three keys to preventing heat-related illnesses are 1) WATER, 2) REST, 3) SHADE.

It's hotter than blazes! How to protect workers when temperatures soar

Here comes the sun - and the heat stroke (if you're not careful)

With a summer heat wave gripping most of the country right now, keeping cool seems to be everyone’s #1 priority. Obviously, employees who work outdoors or in confined spaces with limited cooling or air conditioning are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses.

OSHA requires employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. When the sun is blaring and the temperatures are nearing the triple digits, protect your workers from heat stroke and other extreme temperature hazards by following these precautions:

• Provide shelter from the sun and allow employees to take regular cool-down breaks

• Make sure water is readily available and allow employees to drink throughout the day

• Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including:

=> High body temperature
=> Lack of sweating, although skin may be hot red or flushed and dry skin
=> Rapid pulse
=> Difficulty breathing
=> Irrational or strange behavior, including hallucinations, disorientation. agitation or confusion
=> Seizure

• Keep first aid supplies on-hand at all job sites. For heat related illnesses, this would include ample water or sports drinks, a shower or hose for emergency cool-downs, a shaded or air-conditioned area for recovery, and a working telephone to summon 911.

• Educate employees on the dangers of soaring temperatures with G.Neil’s Extreme Heat Exposure Kit, which includes a poster, tip sheet and 20 takeaway notifications

Here comes the sun - and the heat stroke (if you're not careful)

With summer comes warmer weather ... and more workplace risks

While most of us look forward to the longer, warmer days of summer, this time of year can pose unique challenges for many businesses – especially in the hospitality and entertainment industries. From dress code issues to properly managing a seasonal workforce, you need to be certain you’re towing the legal line during the summer months. This includes:

1. Planning around vacation requests so you’re sufficiently staffed. See Vacation Request & Approval Form (Calendar Format)
2. Preventing sexual harassment when clothing choices — and employee behavior — relax. See Harassment Training Program, “Harassment-Free Workplace: Take Control” and Gradience Handbook Manager software
3. Upholding legal dos and don’ts when hiring temporary summer employees. See The HR Answer Book
4. Understanding child labor issues surrounding teen employees. See SolveIt Now™ Answers to All Your Questions: OSHA Compliance
5. Making the necessary staffing adjustments when employees call out “sick”. See Yearly Vacation Planner
6. Keeping employees safe when the temperatures soar. See Extreme Heat Exposure Kit (Poster & Notifications)

With summer comes warmer weather ... and more workplace risks