International Union of Operating Engineers renews alliance with OSHA to protect Illinois apprentices on construction, earthmoving and trenching sites

CHICAGO — The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150 Apprenticeship and Skill Improvement Program and the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration 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. "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, round-table discussions and stakeholder meetings on the hazards associated with cranes, earthmoving and construction equipment.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with unions, consulates, trade and professional organizations, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. The purpose of each alliance is to develop compliance assistance tools and resources and to educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities. Alliance Program participants do not receive exemptions from OSHA inspections. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/alliances/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.