A new Alliance was formed recently between the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) to address reducing and preventing exposure to material handling, as well as fall hazards and issues related to motor vehicle safety.
“Serious injuries can occur while performing tasks commonly associated with fire sprinkler installation. It is our goal to provide useful information and resources to protect the safety and health of these employees,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. “We are pleased to join with an organization that strongly believes in promoting safe work practices among its organization’s members and others working in this industry.”
Through the Alliance, employers and employees in the fire sprinkler and construction industries will receive guidance on material handling and fall hazards and on motor vehicle safety issues. The Alliance will develop training and educational programs addressing these hazards and communicate information through exhibits, conferences, and OSHA- and AFSA-developed Web sites.
AFSA is an international association, organized in 1981, which provides open shop fire sprinkler contractors with education, consultation and industry representation. Working with government agencies, AFSA helps create awareness of fire hazards and promotes how fire sprinkler installation reduces costs, and most importantly, saves lives.
Steve Muncy, AFSA president, said, “In forming this Alliance, the American Fire Sprinkler Association, and its 900 contractor members, look forward to a positive relationship with OSHA, working together to develop, promote and implement continued safe practices in the fire sprinkler industry. This model cooperative relationship between government and industry will benefit employers and employees alike.”
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA’s role is to assure the safety and health of America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visitwww.osha.gov.
