Infrastructure Improvements

WilliamsRipa & Associates is pleased to announce the completion of our technology infrastructure improvements.  As we continue to investigate ways to improve the user experience, we have migrated our online software services to a much faster server with significantly increased processing power and internal memory.  We are very excited about the change and anticipate a significant performance boost and increased user capacity.  This improvement affects the myRMIS and myHRadministration platform tools, including CAMS, Safe Vehicle Tracking Systems, and the HR Electronic Application. Contact us if you would like more information.

 

New Software Features

WilliamsRipa & Associates is poised to release our newest CAMS features along with our technology infrastructure improvements.  Due to customer requests, we have developed an online document feature in CAMS.  Upon enabling this feature, you will be able to upload documents to the notes or financial sections in CAMS.  We can accept many document types, including PDF, JPG, GIF, DOC, DOCX, TXT, and more.  Plus the system is designed to easily add additional file types as needed.  As always, if there is a great feature that you are looking for, just let us know and we’ll do everything possible to accommodate the request in a future improvement.

 

OSHA – DOT and other Compliance Issues

OSHA – The posting of the OSHA 300A summaries runs through April 30. The 300A should be taken down and filed on May 1.

OSHA has issued a final rule on the implementation of the Global Harmonizing System for chemicals. This change will affect the Hazardous Communication Standard, CFR 29 1910.1200, along with several others. Material Safety Data Sheets, labeling and training are the biggest areas of change. Phase in is schedule for the 2013 – 2016 time period with the first components scheduled for December 1, 2013.

FMCSA – Use of Electronic communication devices is now restricted to hands free use to talk and one button to dial or answer a call. Two way radio type devices, such as Nextel/Sprint are prohibited. The device must be no further than arm’s length away and must not require the driver to take their eyes off the road. Companies need to have a written policy in place and document the driver’s understanding, training and adherence. A word of caution, the presence of a policy and training acknowledgement will not absolve the company of responsibility for a citation. The FMCSA’s stance is that the employer is responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle. You need to show consistent enforcement such as documented disciplinary action.