OSHA, IEC Renew Alliance for Protecting Workers from Electrical Hazards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently renewed their alliance with the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. During the five-year agreement, the alliance will primarily focus on providing agency staff with 70E and arc-flash training, and preventing worker exposures to electric shock and arc flash hazards.

Through the alliance, participants will also promote awareness of OSHA campaigns on preventing falls and heat illness, as well as promote a culture of safety through outreach, particularly to small businesses and workers with limited- and non-English speaking skills.

“For more than a decade, OSHA and IEP have had a productive partnership developing resources to protect thousands of workers in the electrical industry,” said assistant secretary of labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. “Our continued alliance will help ensure that employers and workers in this industry receive information and training that are essential to keeping their workplaces safe and healthful.”

The alliance has developed fact sheets, toolbox talks and guidance documents on updates to OSHA electrical standards; hazards involved in working on or near energized electrical conductors and circuit parts; general safety guidance to help prevent fall-related injuries; and safety considerations when using ladders.

IEC is a national trade association for electrical and systems contractors. Founded in 1957, the association has 56 chapters nationwide that provide management, safety, and worker developmental training each year to more than 3,000 contracting businesses, comprising more than 100,000 employees and electrician apprentices.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with unions, consulates, trade and professional organizations, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. The purpose of each alliance is to develop compliance assistance tools and resources and to educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities. Alliance Program participants do not receive exemptions from OSHA inspections or any other enforcement benefits.