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Workplace deaths recognized at ceremony
Workers who died on the job during the past year were remembered at a ceremony in Salem.
Steel welding presents extra risk
A new rule aims to give workers more information about their exposure to hexavalent chromium, a carcinogen that is released when stainless steel is welded, cut with a plasma torch or cast.
Silica dust causes lung problems
Awareness of the risks of silica dust exposure has grown. Grinding or cutting rock and sand products releases the fine particles, which can cause a host of respiratory problems when inhaled.
OSHA eyes bigger fines for safety violations
Oregon OSHA officials are considering raising the fines for serious workplace safety violations and making bigger employers pay more. In the construction industry, however, the largest general contractors say bigger fines won鈥檛 make them any safer.
OSHA fines could hit big employers harder
Avoiding the black mark of an OSHA violation has served as a disincentive for carelessness even for the most well-capitalized firms. However, administrator Michael Wood says he is now open to the idea of charging bigger companies more than the current maximum of $7,000.
Baby, it’s hot outside
The recession may have cooled local construction, but the industry heated up the past couple days thanks to triple-digit temperatures. While drinking water and taking breaks in the shade are common ways to beat the heat, some local construction workers have come up with their own techniques for cooling off when the heat's on.
News
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $10.6 million in top bidders | July 31, 2026
- Many Oregon counties struggling to maintain their fairgrounds
Commentary
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization 鈥� the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion
- Adjust to legal changes now to ensure compliance later | Opinion
