OSHA launches safety certification program for public workers
Washington – Local and state government workers can now receive training through a new OSHA certificate program that aims to reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths.
Announced Sept. 26, the Public Sector Safety and Health Fundamentals Certificate Program offers courses in construction and general industry that address issues such as incident investigation, fall hazard awareness and recordkeeping.
Training will be administered by OSHA’s Training Institute Education Centers. Participants will earn a certificate after completing at least seven courses totaling at least 68 hours of in-class training.
Public-sector employees have a significantly higher injury and illness rate than workers in the private sector. According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report, state and local government workers in 2011 suffered 5.7 injuries or illnesses per 100 full-time workers, compared with 3.5 in the private sector.
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