Region 6 News Release:   USDL-OSHA-00-60-5-16
Tues., May 16, 2000
Contact: Diana Petterson
PHONE: (214) 767-4776, ext. 222

Logging workers' safety and health in Louisiana will be enhanced by the signing of a landmark partnership between the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Louisiana Forestry Association and the Louisiana Logging Council. The partnership signing takes place 1:30 p.m., May 17 at the OSHA office on 9100 Bluebonnet Centre, Suite 201, in Baton Rouge.

There are almost 200 logging employers who have agreed to participate in this strategic partnership. These employers have committed to establish a written safety and health program and are required to complete at least six hours of formal safety and training annually.

OSHA has targeted the logging industry in an effort to reduce its injuries and illnesses rates by 15% annually. There have been eight logging related fatalities in Louisiana since January 1999.

Establishing partnerships with the private sector to improve safety and health is one of OSHA's major goals. While participation in the partnership is voluntary, OSHA anticipates that employers will experience a decrease in workplace accidents and illnesses and a decrease in worker compensation costs.

"The partnership will help OSHA to achieve its strategic goal of reducing injuries and illnesses in the logging industry," John J. Deifer, OSHA Area Director in Baton Rouge said. "Additionally, the partnership should provide a higher level of employee safety and health training."

For more information, contact the OSHA Baton Rouge office at (225) 389-0474 or the Louisiana Forestry Association at (318) 443-2558.