The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently launched two online Safety and Health Topic Pages. One deals with shift work and long work hours, and the other covers vermiculite, which is used in loose-fill insulation.
“Vermiculite” contains links to NIOSH and other related occupational safety and health publications and sites. Vermiculite, which has been used commercially for over 50 years, has caused serious health problems in miners and others exposed to the ore when it has been contaminated with asbestos. Concerns remain about health effects from exposures to asbestos-contaminated vermiculite, especially vermiculite that has been installed as loose-fill insulation in homes and other buildings.
“Work Schedules: Shift Work and Long Work Hours” contains links to resources such as NIOSH research and publications, conferences, extramural projects, and the NORA Organization of Work team, which researches the health and safety effects of demanding work schedules. The page notes that communication gadgets, productivity pressures, daunting commutes, and extended work shifts can cause increased job demands and longer work days. It also provides information for people who work non-day shifts in health care, security, and businesses that rely on round the clock production, transportation, and service.
