Mason Contractors Association of St. Louis, Missouri, and OSHA continue partnership to train workers on job hazards

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The Mason Contractors Association of St. Louis and the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration have renewed a partnership focused on training employers and workers about hazards masonry workers face daily on the job including fall, electrical, trenching and struck-by hazards. The 10-year partnership has reduced injury rates and lost workdays to levels far below industry averages, according to Bureau of Labor statistics.

"The Mason Contractors Association shows a real commitment to safety because of its effort to protect workers," said Bill McDonald, OSHA's area director in St. Louis. "This partnership renewal will ensure that effective training programs on subjects, including fall hazards, electrical safety and trenching operations, remain relevant and prevalent for masonry workers in the area."

As part of the voluntary partnership, both the Mason Contractors Association and OSHA will continue working together to develop resources to help employers safeguard masonry workers.

The partnership focuses on management commitment and employee participation to create written safety and health programs that address recognized hazards; offers training, such as tool box talks and OSHA courses; and uses job site analysis with regular inspections and implementation of work practices to control employee exposure to hazards.

The partnership was first signed in June 2003 and was renewed July 31, 2014.

Through its Strategic Partnership Program, OSHA 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. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/partnerships/index.html.

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 ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.