International Union of Operating Engineers Renews Alliance with OSHA
The alliance aims to protect Illinois apprentices on construction, earthmoving, and trenching sites.
OSHA and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 Apprenticeship and Skill Improvement Program have renewed an alliance to protect and educate workers on construction and excavation hazards. The alliance will focus on training employers and workers about crane operations, earthmoving, trenching and excavations, and hazardous waste sites.
"We are proud to renew this alliance focused on education and training for apprentices and workers in these dangerous trades," said Kathy Webb, OSHA's area director in Calumet City, Ill. "When workers are involved from day one in the training process and in enforcing safety standards on the job, it creates a work culture in which safety is paramount, and that prevents injuries and illness and saves lives."
One of the goals of the alliance, first signed in 2008, is to continue to raise awareness of OSHA's rulemaking and enforcement initiatives. Other goals include sharing information on occupational safety and health laws and standards, including the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers, and developing effective training and education programs. To achieve these goals, OSHA and its partners will convene and participate in forums, roundtable discussions, and stakeholder meetings on the hazards associated with cranes and earthmoving and construction equipment.