OSHA and the National Association of Institutional
Linen Management Close-Out Report
(As of March 9, 2006)

On February 9, 2005, OSHA and the National Association of Institutional Linen Management (NAILM) formed an Alliance focusing on providing NAILM members and others in the institutional linen industry, in particular small businesses, with information, guidance, and access to training resources that will help them protect employees’ health and safety. The Alliance addressed reducing and preventing exposure to ergonomic and fire hazards as well as hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and motor vehicle safety.

Because NAILM’s focus changed since the Alliance’s signing, OSHA and NAILM agreed to conclude the Alliance as of March 9, 2006. However, OSHA and NAILM will continue to work together through other avenues to develop and share occupational safety and health information. The following successes resulted from the organizations’ working together to meet the Alliance’s goals:

• On June 25, 2005, Charlene Vespi, Program Manager, USF Safety Florida Consultation Program, made a presentation at the World Educational Congress for Laundering and Drycleaning. Ms. Vespi also distributed material on the Alliance from the OSHA and NAILM Alliance exhibit booth.

• OSHA and NAILM Alliance implementation team members began developing a fact sheet on confined space requirements for the institutional linen industry.

Report prepared by: Elizabeth J. Sherfy, Alliance Coordinator, Office of Outreach Services and Alliances, February 9, 2006.