Lawmakers Press Oil, Gas Groups To Back Industry-Wide Diesel Engine Safety Standards

The oil and gas industries are facing pressure from key Democrats on both sides of Capitol Hill to adopt stricter safety standards for diesel engines that incorporate the consistent use of air intake shut-off valves to prevent explosions caused by runaway engines operating in hazardous environments. A congressional staffer said OSHA regulatory action might not be needed if industry agrees to voluntarily tighten its standards. Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), chair of the Senate employment and workplace safety subcommittee, and Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA), chair of the House workforce protections subcomm