U.S. Department of Labor and Buckeye STEPS Renew Alliance to Improve Workplace Safety in Ohio Oil and Gas Industry

COLUMBUS, OH – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Buckeye Service, Transmission, Exploration, and Production Safety Network (STEPS) have renewed an alliance to address safety and health hazards, and help improve workplace safety in Ohio’s oil and gas industry.

The three-year alliance will develop effective awareness and education programs for Buckeye STEPS’ members on hazards such as heat stress, vehicle operations, air contaminants, chemical exposures, falls, electrical, and caught-by and struck-by hazards. Participants will also share information on OSHA campaigns, including the Safe + Sound Campaign for Safety and Health Programs.

“Workplaces are safer when everyone works together to recognize hazards and follow safety protocols,” said Larry Johnson, OSHA Columbus Area Office Director. “Our alliance with Buckeye STEPS allows us to share best practices, educate employers and employees, and ensure safety is a priority on the job.”

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA fosters collaborative relationships with groups committed to worker safety and health, such as trade and professional organizations, unions, consulates, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. Alliance partners help OSHA reach targeted audiences, such as employers and workers in high-hazard industries, and give them better access to workplace safety, and health tools and information.

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 www.osha.gov.