Trade Release
Nov. 3, 2009
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

OSHA addresses workplace violence and fatigue at upcoming international conference on work stress and health

WASHINGTON - The dangers to workers of violence and fatigue are among topics OSHA presenters will address at the 8^th international conference on occupational stress and health, "Work, Stress and Health: Global Concerns and Approaches," Nov. 5-8, 2009, in San Juan, PR.

Presenters will describe how alarm accessibility, unobstructed views from inside and outside the workplace and brighter lighting help reduce violence and improve security for workers. Discussions will also include the impact of working long hours and how fatigue contributes to depression, illness and other symptoms experienced by recovery personnel.

"Protecting workers' safety and health is a global issue," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Jordan Barab. "Workplace violence and other occupational hazards that threaten workers' health and safety should be a concern for employers everywhere."

In addition to OSHA representatives, U.S. and international leaders and professionals in the research, business, labor, medical and social science fields will meet to discuss the global effects of work, stress and health on people in developed and developing countries.

The conference is co-sponsored by the American Psychological Association, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Society for Occupational Health Psychology and the University of Puerto Rico. Visit the conference's Web site for additional details and registration information.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's role is to promote safe and healthful working conditions for America's men and women by setting and enforcing standards; and providing training, outreach and education. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.

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