Archive Notice - OSHA Archive

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

Department of Labor Logo OSHA News Release -
Denver
Region


Please note: As of January 20, 2021, information in some news releases may be out of date or not reflect current policies.
Region 7 News Release: OSHA 07-418-DEN
April 12, 2007
Contact: Rich Kulczewski
Phone: (303) 844-1302


U.S. Department of Labor¿s OSHA and Colorado Contractors Association remind drivers to be aware of street and highway employees in work zones

DENVER -- The U.S. Department of Labor¿s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Colorado Contractors Association are joining forces this spring to remind the public to be aware and careful of workers when driving through street and highway patching and paving work zones.

Between 1995 and 2002, 844 people were killed while working at road construction sites. More than half of these fatalities were attributable to an employee being struck by a vehicle or mobile equipment.

OSHA and the association offer the following safety tips when driving through or near work zones:
  • Slow down and prepare for the unexpected.
  • Follow the instructions on orange warning signs.
  • Allow adequate spacing between vehicles.
  • Be patient. Workers are making the roadways safer for you.
As part of their new alliance, the two organizations plan to conduct several safety meetings throughout the state, beginning in June, to raise awareness about work zone hazards.

Contractors may contact OSHA or the association for more detailed guidelines regarding employee safety and employer obligations. For additional information about this alliance, contact Dave Nelson in OSHA¿s Englewood, Colo., office at (303) 843-4500 ext.126 or Terry Kish at the Colorado Contractors Association at (303) 290-6611.

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 assure the safety and health of America¿s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.
###

U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request at (202) 693-7765 or TTY (202) 693-7755. The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.