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Fed’s Plosser Says Better Job Market Shows Taper Need

Bloomberg (12/06/13) Caroline Salas Gage

Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia president Charles Plosser said current strong job growth suggests the U.S. Federal Reserve should scale back its asset-purchasing program.

According to the minutes of the Fed’s October meeting, it may reduce its stimulus program in the coming months. Policy makers will next meet Dec. 17-18. Plosser supports limiting the stimulus program by putting a fixed amount on asset purchases.

Unemployment Won’t Hit 6.5% Until 2015, Fed Research Suggests

Wall Street Journal (12/05/13) Pedro da Costa

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, the U.S. unemployment rate will most likely hit 6.5% during the first quarter of 2015. The U.S. Federal Reserve has signaled it will consider increasing short-term interest rates when unemployment hits the 6.5% threshold.

Protect Against Winter Weather Hazards, Storm Threats

Society for Human Resource Management (12/08/13) Roy Maurer

Employers need to prepare the workplace for winter weather hazards now, because employee injuries and illness, power loss, communication disruptions, supply chain disruptions, property damage, transportation accidents, and compromised access to facilities could pose risks. Before winter storms occur, employers should review their insurance coverage, identify their greatest risk potentials, create an inclement-weather attendance policy for employees to ensure their safety, discuss weather preparedness with vendors, and determine who is responsible for clearing snow and ice.

Plans for restoring electrical service, stockpiling emergency supplies, servicing generators and heating equipment, communicating with employees, and ensuring remote access to the company’s website are among other prestorm considerations. After the storm, the facility should be inspected for downed power lines, snow accumulation on the roof, frozen pipes, and icy walkways and parking lots, and steps should be taken to prevent slips and falls among employees. Moreover, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration says health and safety plans should include appropriate engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and work practices to minimize the risk of cold stress on workers.

Last Day to Submit Workshop Proposals for the ASA Convention

Today is the last day to submit workshop proposals for Staffing World® 2014, the ASA annual convention and expo.

As a presenter, you will have the opportunity to reach out to staffing industry professionals and build lasting connections. The association is looking for staffing industry professionals to share their experience and expertise through presentations. ASA is also looking for professionals in business, workforce, workplace management, and other disciplines pertinent to the staffing industry.

Proposals for ASAPro webinars are accepted on an ongoing basis. Earlier submissions are given priority. For more information and to download submission guidelines, visit americanstaffing.net.

Free ASAPro Webinar Tomorrow—Engaging International Workers

Is fear of the visa process preventing your firm from hiring the best and brightest candidates available? Find out how to use work visas to give your firm a competitive advantage during tomorrow’s ASAPro webinar, “Sponsor International Candidates to Increase Your Competitive Advantage.” It takes place Dec. 10, 3–4 p.m. Eastern time.

ASAPro webinars are free for ASA members and qualify for continuing education hours toward ASA certification renewal. To learn more and to register, visit americanstaffing.net.