Region 5 News Release: 12-1756-CHI
Nov. 5, 2012
Contact: Scott Allen Rhonda Burke
Phone: 312-353-6976
Email: allen.scott@dol.gov burke.rhonda@dol.gov

US Labor Department's OSHA establishes safety partnership to protect
workers building Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center

CLEVELAND – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has established a strategic partnership with construction contractors and state and local agencies to protect workers building the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center from hazards and the likelihood of serious injuries.

OSHA's partners include the Turner Construction Co., Ozanne Construction Co. and Van Aukin Akins Architects LLC, as well as the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council and the Ohio Bureau of Worker's Compensation Division of Safety and Hygiene Cleveland Service Office.

"This voluntary strategic partnership is focused on identifying and controlling safety hazards, improving safety and health programs, promoting a cooperative relationship between labor and management, and encouraging employee participation in achieving a safe and healthful workplace," said Howard Eberts, OSHA's area director in Cleveland. "It aims to meet these goals through increased training, implementation of best work practices and compliance with applicable OSHA standards and regulations."

Through its Strategic Partnership Program, OSHA develops alliances with employers, workers, professional and trade associations, labor organizations and other interested stakeholders to establish specific goals, strategies and performance measures to improve worker safety and health. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/partnerships/index.html or contact the agency's Cleveland Area Office at 216-615-4266.

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 ensure 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.

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U.S. Department of Labor news materials are accessible at http://www.dol.gov. The information above is available in large print, Braille or CD from the COAST office upon request by calling 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755.