10-974-PHI (osha 10-144)
July 14, 2010
Contact: Leni Fortson
Phone: 215-861-5102
E-mail: uddyback-fortson.lenore@dol.gov

US Labor Department's OSHA forms alliance with Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association, Indiana University program to protect oilfield workers

WEXFORD, Pa. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration today joined the Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association and the Pennsylvania/OSHA Consultation Program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania to promote workplace safety and health for oilfield workers. OSHA and PIOGA officially announced the alliance at a ceremony held at the association's headquarters in Wexford.

The alliance aims to identify and prevent worker exposure to hazards specific to the oil and gas industries through a tailored training and education program. PIOGA is a nonprofit trade organization serving oil and gas-related businesses in the Appalachian area.

"Each day, oilfield workers are exposed to any number of hazards, including falls, fires and explosions," said John Hermanson, OSHA regional administrator in Philadelphia, Pa. "This alliance further strengthens OSHA's ongoing efforts to protect workers in this area."

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with groups committed to safety and health, including businesses, trade or professional organizations, unions and educational institutions, to leverage resources and expertise to develop compliance assistance tools and resources, and share information with employers and employees to help prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities in the workplace. OSHA and the organization sign a formal agreement with goals that address training and education, outreach and communication, and promoting the national dialogue on workplace safety and health.

OSHA area offices in Erie, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre, Pa., are participating in the alliance, which will remain in effect for two years. For more information, contact the Erie Area Office at 814-461-1492.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

###

U.S. Department of Labor releases are accessible on the Internet at http://www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format (large print, Braille, audiotape or disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit http://www.dol.gov/compliance.