July 1, 2005 — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently renewed its alliance with a group of 13 airlines and the International Air Transport Section of the National Safety Council (NSC) to build on previous successes and continue protecting workers in the airline industry.
The agreement focuses on ergonomics, particularly relating to the handling of passenger-checked baggage. The organizations have developed a Web-based training eTool on Baggage Handling and a Safety and Health Topics page for the Airline Industry on OSHA’s Web site, and are developing an industry training manual for aviation baggage handlers.
OSHA also renewed its alliances with the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and the National Association of Shooting Ranges and the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (NASR/SAAMI). The OSHA/AAFA renewal allows the organizations to continue working to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses in the apparel and footwear industry, with a particular focus on ergonomics. The NASR/SAAMI renewal extends the opportunity to promote safe working conditions for employees in target shooting facilities, and also adds hearing conservation as a new area of focus, says OSHA.
In addition, OSHA signed new agreements with the American Red Cross and the National Demolition Association (NDA). Increasing emergency preparedness and disease prevention education, and expanding first aid information for youth workers and those with limited English proficiency is the focus for the Red Cross alliance. The NDA alliance will spotlight emergency preparedness and response, and fall protection, OSHA says.
