Region 8 News Release:   OSHA1.35
Dec. 12, 2001
Contact: Rich Kulczewski
Phone: 303-844-1302

BUILDING CONTRACTOR ENTERS JOB SAFETY PARTNERSHIP WITH OSHA
Pact Covers Construction of State Farm Insurance Co. Buildings in Greeley

GREELEY, Colo. -- Holder Construction Group of Atlanta, Ga., has signed a partnership agreement with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to address hazards associated with construction of two buildings for the State Farm Insurance Company in Greeley.

The $40 million dollar project includes two structural steel buildings on a 40-acre site on the west side of Greeley. It is expected to last from 16 to 18 months and employ some 900 workers.

"The partnership focuses on preventing serious injuries, illnesses and fatalities through effective, safety and health programs designed for this specific project. It will involve every participating contractor and subcontractor," said Herb Gibson, OSHA area director in Denver.

One of OSHA's major goals is to reduce fatalities in the construction industry by 15 percent by focusing on the four leading causes of construction fatalities: falls, struck-by accidents, crushed-by accidents, and electrocutions. To chieve this goal, OSHA encourages partnerships to identify and address significant hazards before injuries or illnesses occur.

Gibson sees the Greeley partnership as an opportunity for all of the project's stakeholders to demonstrate "a zero-accident culture." He said the pact also provides a unique vehicle to train local construction workers for future projects.

OSHA's "Strategic Partnerships for Worker Safety and Health" are available for all industries.

They aim to have a measurable, positive impact on workplace safety and health that goes beyond traditional enforcement methods.

Companies or associations in Colorado who are interested in developing a partnership with OSHA may contact Dave Herstedt at the agency's regional office at (303) 844-1600 (x-309).

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