OSHA is using alliances formed recently with both private and public sector organizations across the U.S. to get out in front of potential safety issues and focus on injury prevention rather than enforcement.

In Erie, Pennsylvania, OSHA and Turner Construction have formed a strategic partnership to promote workplace safety during the construction of a 200,000 square-foot, seven-floor hospital building. The goals: to educate workers, control or eliminate serious hazards, and establish effective safety and health programs.

In New Jersey, the Department of Labor and Workforce Development and its Industrial Safety Committee have signed a two-year agreement with OSHA aimed at guiding local businesses through the development and implementation of effective safety and health programs.

Another two-year agreement – this time in Montana – solidifies a partnership with the Montana Contractors Association through which OSHA will provide training and education programs for small employers to protect workers from construction industry hazards.

OSHA uses its Alliance Program to foster collaborative relationships with groups committed to worker safety and health, such as trade and professional organizations, unions, consulates, faith-and-community-based organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses.

OSHA and the groups work together to develop compliance assistance tools and resources, share information with workers and employers, and educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities.

Alliance partners help OSHA reach targeted audiences, such as employers and workers in high-hazards industries, and provide better access to workplace safety and health tools and information.

If you’re interested in an alliance with OSHA, contact your OSHA Regional Office.