OSHA renews alliance with South Louisiana Service, Transmission, Exploration and Production Safety Network

Participants: The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration renewed a two-year alliance July 16, with the South Louisiana Service, Transmission, Exploration and Production Safety Network.

When and Where: July 16 at Safety Management Systems, Lafayette, LA.

Alliance description: The alliance, which includes operators and contractors in the oil and gas production, exploration and product transmission industry, will continue providing information, guidance and resources to promote safety, health and environmental improvement for oil and gas workers in South Louisiana. The South Louisiana STEPS Network represents one of 23 STEPS groups in 15 oil- and gas-producing states.

Duration: Two-year agreement

Quote: "Our country's oil production is on track to set records this year, and that really underscores the importance of working together to make sure the workers who are contributing to the growth of the nation's oil and gas industry are safe. That's what this alliance is about — an ongoing commitment to the safety and health of those workers, " said Dorinda Folse, OSHA's area director in Baton Rouge. "Though the nationwide fatality rate in the oil and gas sector is still much higher than for workers in other sectors, the STEPS Networks represent a contribution to other public and private initiatives that have led to significant gains in oil and gas safety, both in Louisiana and nationwide."

Alliance information: Through the Alliance Program, OSHA works with businesses, trade associations, unions, consulates, professional organizations, faith-and community-based organizations, and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. The purpose of each alliance is to develop compliance assistance tools and resources and educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/alliances/index.html.

For more information about this alliance or partnering with OSHA's Baton Rouge Area Office, call 225-298-5458.