December 11, 2002—The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) have joined in a formal Alliance to further promote worker safety and health, with a focus on reducing ergonomics-related injuries.
The alliance formalizes a working relationship between OSHA and ASSE to provide information and guidance on reducing and preventing exposure to ergonomic hazards, and for developing, implementing, or improving ergonomic programs in the workplace.
The alliance calls for ASSE members with industry-specific expertise in the ergonomics field to participate in stakeholder groups and other forums. In addition, the Alliance establishes a process in which ASSE members, who represent all industries, organized labor, government, and education, can mentor and assist OSHA personnel as they progress through professional certifications. Both organizations will work together in meeting outreach and communication goals by sharing information through educational opportunities that provide the best information available regarding ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders.
OSHA and ASSE will promote and share information on best practices with others in the occupational health and safety profession, and participate in forums and roundtable discussions on ergonomic issues. The alliance encourages both organizations to develop and disseminate information at conferences, events, and through their respective Web sites. Participants will promote opportunities to speak, exhibit, and appear at functions in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of ergonomic programs.
