January 13, 2026

Department of Labor, Methuen Obayashi Joint Venture partner to promote safety, health during Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project

Partnership to focus on preventing worker injuries, exposure to hazards

CONCORD, NH – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has signed a strategic partnership with the Methuen Obayashi Joint Venture to promote worker safety and health during construction of the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project in Manchester.

The project will modernize Manchester’s drainage system to reduce sewer overflows with the construction of a gravity-fed stormwater conveyance tunnel. OSHA’s partnership with the civil construction company seeks to prevent workers' exposure to gas, pressurized zones, confined spaces and struck-by incidents, and ensure the use of shoring and protective systems in excavations.

The initiative will also assist contractors in developing and implementing safety and health management systems and train subcontractors on recognizing hazards when working in and around construction sites.

Partners will emphasize leadership engagement, accountability measures, worker participation strategies, and robust hazard identification protocols.

OSHA's 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. Learn more about OSHA.

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Media Contact:

Erika B. Ruthman, 678-237-0630, ruthman.erika.b@dol.gov
Eric R. Lucero, 678-237-0630, lucero.eric.r@dol.gov

Release Number: 25-1534-BOS (132)