OSHA and Altec Form Alliance

December 1, 2005 — In an effort to further the safety and health of utility and construction workers and reduce fall and electrocution hazards, Altec Industries and OSHA joined forces recently, forming an alliance that will address the safe operation of cranes, digger derricks, and insulated and non-insulated aerial devices (including tree care devices).

"Reducing injuries, illnesses, and fatalities especially throughout the utility and construction industry is a priority for this agency," said Jonathan L. Snare, acting OSHA administrator. "The collective expertise of Altec and OSHA can create a significant impact on improving the safety and health of workers in the industry. This Alliance gives us the tools to achieve positive gains toward that end and also helps encourage employers and workers to commit to safe work practices."

Among other actions, the new alliance calls for the development of training programs in English and Spanish on the safe operation and proper use of cranes, digger derricks, and aerial devices. Altec will help OSHA develop ways of communicating that information through print and electronic media, including electronic assistance tools and both organization's Web sites. Both organizations will share information regarding Altec's best practices and help publicize them through written materials, training programs, workshops, seminars and lectures.

Characterized by Altec President and CEO Lee Styslinger, III, as an important opportunity, the alliance will further the company's commitment to educating utility and construction crews on safe work practices. "The agreement allows us to collaborate with OSHA and implement critical safety initiatives by networking with other organizations committed to workplace safety," he said. "The sharing of this knowledge and the increased training and education provided by the agreement will help make utility and construction job sites safer and healthier places to work."