US Department of Labor partners with OHL North America construction company, University of South Florida to promote workplace safety

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Obrascón Huarte Lain North America are collaborating to promote worker safety and health at the South Corridor Rapid Transit project, a 20-mile stretch of existing busway. Joining the effort is the University of South Florida On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program.

OSHA has signed a partnership with the construction management company to focus on hazards related to falls, struck-by, electrical, hand and power tools, heat illness, and exposure to crystalline silica and noise. The partners will also encourage contractors to develop safety and health programs and provide training to all employees.

“Working together, we look forward to ensuring the safety and health of the project’s workers so that they can return home uninjured to their families,” said OSHA Area Director Condell Eastmond in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The South Corridor Rapid Transit project will include construction of bus transit stations and a park-and-ride garage. It is one of six mobility plans in the Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit campaigns. Once complete, the entire project will connect five of South Florida’s fastest-growing cities.

OHL North America is the North American division of Obrascón Huarte Lain, one of the world’s largest international construction companies, headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Its regional headquarters are located in College Point, New York, with operations in nine U.S. states.

OSHA’s Strategic Partnership Program works with employers, employees, professional and trade associations, labor organizations and other stakeholders setting specific goals and performance measures to improve worker safety and health.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure these conditions for America’s workers by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. Learn more about OSHA and the laws the agency enforces.