OSHA has established a strategic partnership with the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters and W.E. O'Neil Construction Co. to reduce workers' exposure to hazards and the likelihood of serious injuries. The Illinois On-Site Consultation Program of the Illinois Department of Labor is also participating in the partnership, which covers the University of Chicago William Eckert Research Center Project.
OSHA spokesman Gary Anderson said the partnership is voluntary and will focus on identifying and controlling hazards and promoting a cooperative relationship between labor, unions and management during the construction of the research center -- a four-story, $170 million project, scheduled to be completed in 2015.
The W.E. O'Neil Construction Co., general contractor on the project, will develop a site- specific safety program and require all prime contractors on the project to provide on-site safety representatives, conduct regular safety audits, attend a specific safety orientation given by O'Neil personnel and conduct daily huddle and safety meetings to share safety concerns and implement best practices.