U.S. Department of Labor and Manhattan Construction Collaborate to Promote Workplace Safety at Southwest Florida International Airport Terminal Expansion Project
- By Shereen Hashem
- Nov 05, 2021
The U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA signed a partnership with Manhattan Construction Florida Inc. to promote worker safety and health at the Southwest Florida International Airport expansion project in Fort Myers. The University of South Florida On-site Safety and Health Consultation Program is also a partner.
According to a press release, the partnership seeks to prevent worker injuries and exposure to hazards during a terminal expansion construction project by developing a contractor-government approach to safety and health. Participants will focus on the use of PPE, heat illness prevention, hazards related to falls, struck-by and caught-in objects, electrical equipment and work practices, fire protection and prevention, safe use of hand and power tools and silica and noise exposure. The partnership will also encourage contractors to develop safety and health programs, as well as provide training to employees, employers and supervisors.
“Worker safety and health partnerships rely on the collaboration between OSHA, management and labor to leverage resources and maximize results,” said OSHA Area Office Director Danelle Jindra in Tampa, Florida. “While each partnership is unique, they all demonstrate a commitment to ensuring all workers end their workday safely.”
The Southwest Florida International Airport expansion project includes constructing a connector between the three existing concourses, consolidating the Transportation Security Administration security checkpoints, as well as providing additional seating, concession spaces and a business lounge. In total, more than 164,000 square feet of space will be remodeled, and 117,000 square feet of space will be added to the airport terminal.
OSHA’s Strategic Partnership Program works with employers, employees, professional and trade associations, labor organizations and other interested stakeholders to establish specific goals, strategies and performance measures to improve worker safety and health.
About the Author
Shereen Hashem is the Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety magazine.