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January 13, 2003 TRADE
NEWS RELEASE
OSHA,
Dow Chemical Company Form
Alliance
Will Focus on Process Safety Management and Ergonomic Injuries WASHINGTON -- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and The Dow Chemical Company have formed an Alliance to promote worker safety and health with a focus on safety management of hazardous chemicals and ergonomics, OSHA Administrator John Henshaw announced today. "This Alliance with The Dow Chemical Company helps establish a solid foundation that we can build upon to further enhance a culture of prevention in the chemical industry," said Henshaw. "It's an excellent opportunity for us to partner with stakeholders and do all we can to improve worker safety." OSHA and The Dow Chemical Company will work together to provide technical knowledge and guidance on PSM (OSHA's PSM standard establishes requirements to prevent, or minimize, the potential for fire or explosion caused by dangerous chemicals), reduce exposure to musculoskeletal hazards, and improve safety and health programs in the workplace. Outreach and education is a major component of the Alliance, which calls for the partners to develop and disseminate information on the effective elements of safety and health programs through the media and at conferences and events. OSHA and Dow will develop ways to communicate effective approaches for addressing health and safety challenges in the workplace, such as cross-training, job aids, and usability studies. Under the agreement, OSHA and Dow will seek opportunities to participate in stakeholder groups and other forums for providing input into the development of safety and health standards and guidance for the chemical industry. The Alliance also encourages Dow worksites and personnel to act as industry liaisons for OSHA's cooperative programs and compliance assistance specialists. A team of OSHA and Dow representatives will meet at least quarterly to develop an action plan, determine working procedures, and identify the roles and responsibilities of the participants. OSHA will also offer the opportunity for representatives of the Occupational Safety and Health State Plan Association and the Association of State Consultation Projects to participate in the Alliance. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is dedicated to saving lives, preventing injuries and illnesses, and protecting America's workers. Safety and health add value to business, the workplace and life. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. ###
This news release text is on the Internet at http://www.osha.gov. Information on this release will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (202) 693-1999.
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