JULIE, STATE OF ILLINOIS JOIN OSHA TO FORM ALLIANCE
Agreement Highlights Cooperative Efforts to Promote Trenching Safety

PEORIA, ILLINOIS – Workers in Illinois stand to benefit from an alliance scheduled for signing June 10 by the State of Illinois Onsite Safety and Health Consultation Program, JULIE, Inc. (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).  The alliance is designed to improve safe trenching operations in the state.

The groups will sign the formal alliance at the JULIE office, 3275 Executive Drive, Joliet, to combine resources in the fight against hazards faced by workers involved in trenching and excavation operations.

"Injuries encountered during trenching operations continue to be among some of the top safety issues in the country,” said OSHA Area Director John Newquist, Peoria.  “The saddest part about these kinds of accidents is that they are entirely preventable, and we believe that our agreement with these two excellent groups will help get that message across to everyone involved.”

The alliance requires each organization to contribute to the development of training courses and materials on safe trenching and delivery of the courses to appropriate audiences.  Further, the groups will share resources and information to raise awareness and commitment to workplace safety and health.   Information will be shared through participation in a variety of forums throughout Illinois.

OSHA health and safety alliances are part of U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao's ongoing efforts to improve health and safety for workers through cooperative partnerships. 

Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA’s role is to assure the safety and health of America’s workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov .