U.S. Department of Labor Partners with University of South Florida and Contractor to Promote Worker Safety During Florida Construction Project

MIAMI, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has signed a strategic partnership with the University of South Florida Safety and Health Consultation Program, and Shawmut Design and Construction Co. to promote worker safety and health during the construction of the 39,700-square-foot Ransom Everglades School development project in Miami, Florida. The project includes a drop-off loop, two parking lots, and meeting space for the science, technology, engineering, and math facility.

Under the agreement, the partners will address hazards related to falls, struck-by, caught-in/between, electrical, fire protection and prevention, hand and power tools, silica, and noise exposure; the use of personal protective equipment; and heat illness prevention. The partners will also encourage contractors to develop and implement safety and health programs, and provide safety and health training to employees, employers, and supervisors.

Through the 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 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 https://www.osha.gov/.