US Labor Departments OSHA joins Morristown, NJ, organization to continue vital effort to protect area Latino workers

Alliance renewed during national Latino worker safety and health summit in Houston

HOUSTON In an effort to continue to improve workplace safety and health for area Latino workers, the U.S. Department of Labor s Occupational Safety and Health Administration renewed its alliance with the Wind of the Spirit Immigrant Resource Center in Morristown, N.J., today at the National Action Summit for Latino Worker Health and Safety in Houston.

The purpose of the alliance is to increase access to safety and health information and training for Latino workers, particularly day laborers, by providing 10-hour OSHA courses in Spanish that focus on both general industry and construction.

Wind of the Spirit was one of the first faith-based organizations to sign a formal alliance with OSHA. Originally launched in 2003, the alliance has been renewed twice and already has resulted in training for more than 1,000 workers.

Our longstanding work with Wind of the Spirit stands as a powerful example for other community-based organizations. It demonstrates how, in partnership, we can break through the language barrier in order to more effectively arm Latino workers with the information needed to stay safe and healthy on the job, said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Dr. David Michaels, who was present at the alliance signing. Through this joint effort, day laborers and other low-wage workers will better understand their rights and how to protect themselves.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with groups committed to safety and health, including businesses, trade and professional organizations, unions and educational institutions, to leverage resources and expertise to develop compliance assistance tools and resources, and share information with employers and employees to help prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities in the workplace. OSHA and the organization sign a formal agreement with goals that address training and education, outreach and communication, and promoting the national dialogue on workplace safety and health.

OSHA s Parsippany Area Office in New Jersey will participate in the alliance, which will remain in effect for two years. For more information, call 973-263-1003.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA s role is to assure these conditions for America s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, outreach, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.