U.S. Department of Labor Enters Partnership to Promote Safety During Construction of Amazon Distribution Center in Wisconsin

OAK CREEK, WI – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has signed a strategic partnership with Ryan Companies US Inc., the Milwaukee Building & Construction Trades Council, and Wisconsin Safety and Health Consultation Program to promote worker safety and health during the construction of a two million-square-foot Amazon Distribution Center in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.

The partners will address construction hazards, such as falls, electrical safety, heat stress, trenching, material handling, noise and struck-by hazards, and silica exposure. During the project, partners will conduct daily audits and weekly trainings to exchange information on hazards identified, best practices, and to promote worker participation in safety and health programs. The partners have also agreed to establish a safety committee for the site, and mentor contractors and subcontractors who have not developed safety and health programs for their companies.

"This partnership will reinforce the importance of safe work practices among the more than 1,200 skilled tradespeople working on the project," said OSHA Area Director Christine Zortman, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. "By exhibiting leadership and engaging in mentorship, the partners can be influential in educating contractors on creating a culture of safety."

The OSHA Strategic Partnership Program 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/.