Massachusetts Workers' Compensation Lawyer Blog
Massachusetts’ Department of Labor Standards (DLS) started a campaign in 2012 to fight the leading cause of death for Massachusetts construction workers. Their initiatives were recognized with an award from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Office of Small Business Assistance last month.Falls from construction sites to a lower level claimed the lives of more Massachusetts construction workers than any other type of accident from 2007-2011. The campaign aims to both provide small contractors with the training and resources needed to perform jobs safely, as well as raise general public awareness of the dangers of construction site falls.
Labor and Workforce Development Secretary said, “I’m proud of the Department of Labor Standards’ hard work on this important initiative. Falls on construction sites are deadly but preventable. We can save lives by educating Massachusetts’ contractors about how to protect their employees by reducing the number of falls.”
The On-site Consultation Achievement Recognition (OSCAR) is awarded to state programs that have made significant achievements in promoting worker health and safety. The Massachusetts program printed and distributed 5,000 flyers to licensed roofing contractors, trade associations, supply houses and building inspectors in Middlesex and Essex counties.
Consultants and complains officers visited worksites and held seminars with demonstrations of protective devices and presentations on OSHA requirements. Due to the success, the program was expanded to Springfield and Andover to expand the outreach area.
DLS Director Heather Rowe said, “As the weather warms and construction jobs pick up in 2013, we will once again embark on an aggressive campaign aimed at preventing falls at residential construction sites. I am proud of the recognition we have received and grateful to work with such committed partners.”
MA Department of Public Health released educational materials for contractors on ladder safety, scaffold safety, personal fall arrest systems, and myths and facts about falls in residential construction. Six seminars will also be held throughout the state to explain standards to prevent falls as well as practical solutions to common problems.
Pulgini & Norton, LLP attorneys have handled workers’ compensation claims for over 25 years in and around Boston and its surrounding areas. If you or a family member has been injured at work and would like to seek legal assistance, please contact us at (781) 843-2200 or (888) 344-2046 or email us.
Cited Sources:
MA DOL Standards Recognized for Worker Safety Initiative, WorkersCompensation.com, May 20, 2013