Source: New gov't rules aimed at safety of workers

Labor Secretary Hilda Solis said Tuesday that the government would soon propose new safety rules to protect workers from industrial dust that can cause explosions and a popcorn flavoring chemical linked to lung disease.

The announcement is part of her efforts to boost safety enforcement at the department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Solis made her remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony dedicating a national memorial in Silver Spring, Md., to workers who have died on the job.

"As we dedicate the building of this monument to fallen workers, we must also rededicate ourselves to defending and enforcing every man and womans rights to a safe and healthful working environment," Solis said.

One proposal would seek to limit worker exposure to diacetyl, a flavoring agent in microwave popcorn that is blamed for sickening hundreds of popcorn plant workers. Solis said she will convene a special panel next month that would allow small businesses to suggest how any new rules could minimize the economic burden on their operations.

Solis also said OSHA plans to propose new standards on combustible dust particles that can cause explosions at some work sites. Investigators blamed sugar dust at a Georgia refinery for a massive explosion last year that killed 14 people.

Labor Department officials declined to provide further details on the new rules, which are expected to be proposed later this year.

On a broader level, Solis said OSHA is creating a new program called the Severe Violators Inspection Program to crack down on "negligent companies" that don't take worker safety seriously. Details of the new program have not been announced.