U.S. Department of Labor Enters Partnership to Promote Safety During Construction Project at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago

CHICAGO, IL – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Power Ujamaa Construction have signed a strategic partnership to promote worker safety and health during the construction of an outpatient care center at the Rush University Medical Center (RUMC) – a destination center for cancer and neurological care.

As part of OSHA’s Strategic Partnership Program, the partnership will focus on a variety of construction hazards, including falls, crane operations, trenching and excavations, as well as noise, silica and carbon monoxide exposure. The partners will also encourage contractors to conduct daily audits and weekly trainings to exchange information on hazards identified, best practices, and to promote worker participation in safety and health programs.

Other organizations participating in the partnership include the Illinois On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 134, and Chicago Council of Carpenters. All contractors and subcontractors working at the site agree to participate in the partnership agreement.

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/.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.