OSHA renews safety alliance with Altec Industries

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently renewed its Alliance with Altec Industries Inc. to provide safety and health guidance for employees, including non- or limited English-speaking employees, on the safe operation of cranes, digger derricks, insulated and non-insulated aerial devices, including tree care devices, and on industry hazards such as falls and electrocutions.

"Employees in the utility and construction industries face serious hazards daily," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "The collective expertise of OSHA and Altec will further our efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses and fatalities throughout the industry, while encouraging employers and employees to commit to safer work practices.  Through the Alliance, originally signed on Nov. 22, 2005, OSHA regional and area staff have participated in the "Safe Operation of Insulated Aerial Devices Training."

OSHA also provided input in the development of safety tips sheets that address operator training requirements, general safety topics for aerial devices and safety tips to prevent electrocutions. In addition, Altec representatives continue to serve on the editorial boards for OSHA’s Safety and Health Topics pages related to Crane, Derrick and Hoist Safety; Electrical Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution Industry; and Tree Care Industry. OSHA created an OSHA and Altec Alliance Web page featuring information on the Alliance-related activities, events, products, and resources.

Altec chief executive officer Lee Styslinger, III said, "The importance of safety is job number one. We are committed to supporting and enhancing safety in everything we do to insure, through our Alliance with OSHA, we leverage our combined ability to enhance safety."

Altec Industries Inc. manufactures aerial devices, digger derricks and specialty equipment in the electric utility, telecommunications and tree care industries. Founded in 1929, with more than 2,500 associates worldwide, the company maintains, sells and services these types of equipment in over 120 countries.

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, visit www.osha.gov.