We're excited to welcome Lori Chavez-DeRemer as the 30th United States Secretary of Labor. With more than two decades of public service, she has focused on strengthening communities, supporting workers and driving economic growth. "I'm prepared to work with business and labor, and with every agency across this department, to ensure our priorities reflect the needs of America's workforce," said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer.

At OSHA, Amanda Wood Laihow was appointed as OSHA's principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, currently serving as Acting Assistant Secretary overseeing the agency's efforts to protect the safety and health of America's workers. As a commissioner at the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission, she understands the critical role of OSHA in workplace safety. "Through these experiences, I would like to build a shared vision on the foundations of OSHA and help ensure workers return home safely to their families," said Acting Assistant Secretary Laihow.

With their leadership, the Department of Labor and OSHA remain committed to creating safer workplaces and stronger opportunities for all.

Farmworkers face many hazards on the job, such as pesticide exposure, dangerous machinery, heat illness and engulfment in grain silos. But proper training, safe operation of equipment, and personal protective equipment can keep them safe as they labor to feed America.

The four most common causes of worker fatalities in the construction industry are falls, being caught in or between machinery or equipment, being struck by objects, and electrocution. That is why we created a set of training resources to teach workers how to stay safe from these hazards.

Workplace safety requires leadership from the shop floor to the manager's office, to the company boardroom. Setting an example by making safety part of daily conversations demonstrates to workers that their wellbeing is important to business success. OSHA can help you ensure that everyone on the jobsite understands safety procedures they are required to follow, and to identify and suggest solutions for any existing workplace hazards.

OSHA works collaboratively with our alliances and partners to develop products and programs aimed at improving worker safety. We also recognize employers and workers in the private industry and federal agencies who have implemented effective safety and health programs.

In this issue, we're highlighting the Maine Department of Labor's SafetyWorks! Consultation Program who joined with private safety consultants, insurance and construction companies to form the Construction Safety Alliance of Maine (CSAM).

The CSAM offers monthly trainings on topics such as construction and electrical safety, heat, silica protection, young worker safety and more.

❓ My employer claims that they are not required to supply potable water year-round but rather only during the summer. Could I get some clarification on this?

🗣 OSHA standards require employers in general industry, construction, agriculture and maritime to provide workers with free potable water at work and allow employees to drink it during their shifts. Potable water includes tap water that is safe for drinking.

If you are looking for answers about workplace safety and health, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or submit your own question.

Never skip a step in ladder safety. Always follow these tips:

• ✓ Use the right ladder for the job
• ✓ Maintain three points of contact
• ✓ Place on a stable, level surface

Stay safe and take the lead on ladder safety!