August 9, 2023

US Department of Labor, Alabama's builders, contractors form alliance to make construction workplaces safer

Initiative focuses on identifying, correcting workplace dangers

Who: U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. – Alabama Chapter

What: Safety and health alliance, OSHA's Safe and Sound Campaign, Aug. 7 -11, 2023. 

Background: Each year, hundreds of construction workers suffer injuries, sometimes fatal, while on the job. The alliance seeks to protect workers by reducing and preventing exposure to hazards during trenching and excavation operations, while using scaffolding, working in confined spaces and when installing electrical components. The alliance will also serve to promote OSHA's Safe + Sound Week 2023 from Aug. 7 to 11, 2023. Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America's workers safe. This year Safe + Sound Week will provide resources for businesses on mental health and well-being. 

Employers interested in demonstrating and being recognized for their commitment to safety are welcome to participate in the nationwide movement by registering for free and online. 

OSHA's Alliance Program works with groups committed to worker safety and health to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. These groups include unions, consulates, trade or professional organizations, businesses and more. OSHA and the groups work together to develop compliance assistance tools and resources to share with workers and employers. The program also centers on educating workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities.

Quote: "This public-private alliance has the power to advance safety in the tough and demanding construction industry," said OSHA Area Office Director Joel Batiz in Birmingham, Alabama. "Together, OSHA and ABC are determined to ensure industry employers provide safe working conditions as required, and that workers recognize and understand how to prevent common hazards from leading to injuries or worse. That this event is taking place during Safe + Sound Week 2023 is meaningful to all involved."

Media Contacts: 

Erika B. Ruthman, 678-237-0630, ruthman.erika.b@dol.gov 
Eric R. Lucero, 678-237-0630, lucero.eric.r@dol.gov 

Release Number:  23-1096-ATL (261)