Yearly Archives: 2016

With the average age of New Jersey's public schools at more than 50 years old and with many schools dating back to the turn of the 20th century, we are concerned that custodian privatization will have negative ramifications for the quality of our school facilities. "Investing in schools means investing in the personnel that keep our buildings safe and healthy. As the debate around equitable school-funding rages, New Jersey school districts would be wise to think twice about privatization, which often carries substantial hidden costs coupled with reduced performance." Full opinion-editorial by Jerell Blakeley, WEC Campaign Organizer in August 15, 2016 - NJ Spotlight

Right in the shadow of the New Jersey Statehouse, the workers were dry cutting the sidewalk concrete, unwittingly putting themselves and the public in danger. Silica exposure impacts thousands of workers; in New Jersey more than 150,000 work in construction, but those who work with glass, pottery, jewelry and even dentistry might be impacted. Full Article by Ken Hoffner, Assistant Director, NJ Laborers' Health and Safety Fund and Dan Fatton, WEC Executive Director August 8, 2016 - Asbury Park Press Online

EPA should seize the opportunity to act to protect public safety and the environment from toxic chemical disasters. But will it apply the lessons learned in New Jersey? This spring, EPA proposed amending its Risk Management Program (RMP) rule that covers facilities using extraordinarily hazardous substances. The proposed rule exempts 88 percent of the total RMP-covered facilities, including entire industry sectors with known safer alternatives. Full Opinion-Editorial by John Shinn, Director, United Steelworkers District 4 and Debra Coyle McFadden, WEC Assistant Director August 4, 2016 - The Star Ledger