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OSHA News Release
2003 - 03/12/2003 - INTERNATIONAL MASS RETAIL ASSOCIATION FORMS ALLIANCE WITH OSHA

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TRADE NEWS RELEASE
March 12, 2003
Contact: Bill Wright
Phone: (202) 693-1999


INTERNATIONAL MASS RETAIL ASSOCIATION
FORMS ALLIANCE WITH OSHA
Reducing ergonomic injuries in the industry is the focus

WASHINGTON -- The International Mass Retail Association (IMRA) became the first retail trade association to join with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to focus efforts on reducing ergonomic injuries in the industry, OSHA announced today. Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA John Henshaw and IMRA President Sandra L. Kennedy signed the agreement in Orlando, FL during the association's Loss Prevention, Auditing and Safety Conference.

"This Alliance validates that IMRA recognizes the value of safe and healthful workplaces," Henshaw said. "Together, we can assure that thousands of American employers and workers in the retail industry are armed with the information and tools to make their workplaces safer."

Added IMRA President Sandra Kennedy: ""IMRA applauds OSHA's approach recognizing that one size does not fit all and that ergonomic flexibility is critical to the changing retail environment."

IMRA joins 23 other organizations participating in eight ergonomic-specific Alliances with OSHA. Under the agreement, OSHA and IMRA will provide Association members with specific information and guidance on dealing with ergonomic safety in the workplace. One means of achieving that objective will be through conferences, events, or through print and electronic media, including links to both organizations' web sites.

OSHA and IMRA plan to promote the effectiveness of safety, health and ergonomic programs through workshops, exhibits, conferences, and other venues. OSHA will also reach out to individual IMRA members who may benefit from mentoring or guidance in developing, implementing or improving safety and health programs.

OSHA also plans to encourage the Association's membership to act as industry liaisons and resources for OSHA's cooperative programs and Compliance Assistance Specialists. A national dialogue on workplace safety and health will be pursued through IMRA's outreach to others in the retail industry, and both organizations participation in forums and round table discussions on ergonomic issues.

Based in Arlington, VA, the International Mass Retail Association is a coalition of retailers and suppliers, and represents workers in more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers nationwide and provides industry research and education, government advocacy, and a forum for its members to establish relationships for the benefit of the consumer and the mass retail industry.

OSHA is dedicated to saving lives, preventing injuries and illnesses, and protecting America's workers. Safety and health add value to business, the workplace and life. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.


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