U.S. Department of Labor Partnership Promotes Workplace Safety During Construction of Poultry Research Lab in Athens, Georgia

ATHENS, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has signed a strategic partnership with the Associated General Contractors of Georgia Inc. and Mortenson Construction to promote worker safety and health during the construction of the U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory in Athens, Georgia.

The partnership seeks to prevent injuries and exposure to hazards during the demolition of existing structures and construction of four new buildings totaling 243,000 square feet, and replacement of all existing utility infrastructure. The new buildings will consist of a multi-story office, laboratory of animal biosafety, and administrative buildings.

The agreement calls for partners to take steps to prevent hazards related to falls, struck-by, caught-in/between, electrical, hand and power tools, silica, noise and heat exposure. 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/.