U.S. Department of Labor and Montana Contractors Association Sign Alliance to Foster Safer Workplaces

BILLINGS, MT – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Montana Contractors Association (MCA) have signed an alliance to foster safer workplaces.  

The two-year alliance will focus on effective training and education programs to recognize and prevent workplace hazards in the construction industry. In addition, the alliance will develop training programs for small employers to enhance understanding of employers and employees rights and responsibilities, as well as OSHA's rulemaking and enforcement initiatives. 

"This alliance allows OSHA and MCA to provide resources and emphasize the critical importance of safety and health training throughout Montana," said Art Hazen, OSHA Billings Area Office Director.

Through the Alliance Program, OSHA fosters collaborative relationships with groups committed to worker safety and health, such as trade and professional organizations, unions, consulates, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. Alliance partners help OSHA reach targeted audiences, such as employers and workers in high-hazard industries, and give them better access to workplace safety and health tools and information.

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 help 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.