U.S. Department of Labor Forms Safety Partnership with Builder and Unions on Potawatomi Hotel Expansion Project

MILWAUKEE, WI – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has joined with Gilbane Building Company and the Milwaukee Building & Construction Trades Council in signing a strategic partnership to promote worker safety and health during the construction of the Potawatomi Hotel Expansion in Milwaukee.

The partnership will develop safety and health training programs and procedures; identify and address common construction hazards such as falls, electrical, silica, noise, and carbon monoxide exposure; and encourage worker participation in employer safety and health programs. The partners will conduct a job site safety orientation for workers, daily safety huddles, and weekly safety meetings.

"Our partners understand the importance of a comprehensive safety and health program in a high-hazard work environment, and will mentor subcontractors who have not yet developed their own plans," said OSHA Milwaukee Area Office Director Christine Zortman.

The project involves the construction of 119 new rooms atop an existing hotel podium, as well as the addition of kitchen expansions, and banquet and storage facilities. It is scheduled for completion in 2019.

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.

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 www.osha.gov.