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Region 5 News Release:   V-96
Feb. 11, 2000
William M. Murphy
Dennis E. Slessman
PHONE: (513) 841-4132

OSHA AND ALLIED CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES FORM LANDMARK PARTNERSHIP TO IMPROVE SAFETY AT CONSTRUCTION WORKSITES IN SOUTHWESTERN OHIO

Construction workers' safety and health in southwestern Ohio will be enhanced by a landmark partnership established today by Allied Construction Industries, a trade association in Cincinnati, and the Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

The three-year agreement provides incentives for participating construction contractors to voluntarily improve their safety and health performance under strict guidelines set by the partnership. Employers who participate in the partnership will not be exempt from compliance with OSHA regulations and standards. OSHA will recognize contractors who have created exemplary safety programs. OSHA expects that the partnership will reduce the need for inspections of participating contractors.

OSHA's Regional Administrator, Michael G. Connors, stated, "This is the first comprehensive partnership program recognized by OSHA in the Midwest, and is among the first comprehensive construction partnerships entered into by OSHA in the nation. The partnership helps to create incentives to improve safety in an industry that has traditionally had a high number of injuries and illnesses."

Establishing partnerships with the private sector to improve safety and health is one of OSHA's major goals. OSHA and Allied Construction Industries have worked closely in past years to promote innovative safety and health programs in the tri-state area. While participation in the partnership is voluntary, OSHA anticipates that contractors will experience a decrease in workplace accidents and illnesses, and a decrease in worker compensation costs.

"This partnership will help OSHA achieve its strategic goal to reduce injuries and illnesses in the construction industry," said Cincinnati OSHA Area Director William M. Murphy. Murphy added that the partnership will significantly enhance worker safety by increasing employee training and encouraging employee involvement. The partnership will also allow OSHA to pinpoint problem worksites for regular inspections.

The information in this news release will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (312) 353-6976; TDD Message Referral Phone: 1-800-800-4571.