December 4, 2015
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

OSHA renews alliance with Altec Industries Inc. to protect workers
from hazards

WASHINGTON - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Altec Industries Inc. recently renewed their alliance aimed at preventing workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities in the utility, telecommunications and construction industries. The alliance will focus on the safe operation, use and maintenance of equipment used in these industries, including cranes, chippers, digger derricks and aerial devices.

The alliance will also work to promote a culture of safety and health, particularly in small businesses and among workers with non- or limited-English speaking skills.

"Workers in the telecommunication, utility and construction industries face serious, often life-threatening hazards every day," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "Through our renewed alliance with Altec Industries, we will continue to provide training to vulnerable workers and encourage employers to commit to safer work practices."

During the five-year agreement, the alliance will provide safety training in mobile cranes, tree care and insulated aerial devices, digger derricks, wood chippers, and construction and general industry standards. The alliance will also update guidance and training materials on fall protection, electric shock and aerial lift tip-overs. Additionally, the alliance will work to provide workers, including those with limited English proficiency, with resources that will help them understand their rights and the responsibilities of employers under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Altec manufactures aerial devices, digger derricks, mobile cranes, wood chippers and specialty equipment for the electric utility, telecommunications and tree care industries. Altec provides computer-based training designed to help employers teach and certify equipment operators on the safe operation of Altec aerial devices and digger derricks. The company has provided this training to more than 1,000 OSHA staff.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with unions, consulates, trade and professional organizations, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. The purpose of each alliance is to develop compliance assistance tools and resources and to educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities. Alliance Program participants do not receive exemptions from OSHA inspections or any other enforcement benefits.

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 ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.

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