OSHA and the National Safety Management Society (NSMS) have signed an alliance to focus on integrated safety management systems and workplace safety and health programs.

"There can be no denying the value of committed management and solid management principles in establishing workplace safety and health," said OSHA chief John Henshaw. "NSMS provides safety management expertise and I'm looking forward to working with them as we continue to foster a culture of worker safety and health."

Added James J. Thatcher, NSMS president: "Compliance with safety standards, safety management systems and building the kind of culture which encourages employee involvement and working as a team are what keeps workers safe and businesses competitive. This Alliance creates and fosters that kind of culture."

OSHA and NSMS will develop safety management systems training for conferences, meetings, and through NSMS' learning network. NSMS will also provide OSHA's Training Institute with educational and training materials and resources on issues specific to safety management systems.

NSMS members will also have the chance to mentor OSHA personnel as they proceed with professional certification.

Founded in 1968, NSMS is a non-profit organization that provides a forum for safety and health professionals to address safety and health management systems.