The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has designated Hanscom AFB, Mass., as a Voluntary Protection Program Star certified site. It is the first such certification for an active duty Air Force installation. (The Minnesota Air National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing received an OSHA VPP Star in 2008.) OSHA inspectors reviewed Hanscom’s program in May, including site visits and discussions with employees. “The commitment on behalf of management and employees to VPP was outstanding,” said Bob Sands, OSHA’s Region 1 VPP manager. (Hanscom report by Rhonda Siciliano)
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.