The International Mass Retail Association (IMRA) is the first retail trade association to join OSHA to focus efforts on reducing ergonomic injuries in the industry.

Under the agreement, OSHA and IMRA will provide association members with specific information and guidance on dealing with ergonomic safety in the workplace. One means of achieving that objective will be through conferences, events, or through print and electronic media, including links to both organizations' Web sites.

OSHA plans to encourage the association's membership to act as industry liaisons and resources for OSHA's cooperative programs and compliance assistance specialists.

Based in Arlington, Va., the International Mass Retail Association is a coalition of retailers and suppliers, and represents workers in more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers.