November 1, 2012
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

OSHA and the International Window Cleaning Association renew Alliance to
protect workers from industry hazards

WASHINGTON – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration renewed its Alliance with the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) to address slips, trips, falls from heights, and the safe use of high-reach access equipment such as ladders and scaffolding in the window cleaning industry.

"Falls are among the most common causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths in the window cleaning industry," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health David Michaels. "We look forward to continuing our work with the IWCA to provide workplace training and education to help ensure that workers are aware of on-the-job hazards and reduce injuries throughout the industry."

During the two-year agreement, the Alliance members will develop effective training and education programs for window cleaning contractors with low literacy and limited English speaking workers on the recognition and prevention of workplace accidents cleaning windows and solar panels. New and existing materials will be translated to help train and educate Spanish-speaking workers, who comprise about 50 percent of the industry.

IWCA is a non-profit trade association representing more than 500 national and international member companies that employ more than 10,000 workers.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with businesses, trade associations, unions, consulates, professional organizations, faith- and community-based organizations, and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. The purpose of each alliance is to develop compliance assistance tools and resources and educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/alliances/index.html.

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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