May 1, 2008 – An alliance among the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel and Tourist Association (USVIHTA) and the territory's "Safety in Paradise" OSHA Consultation Program will provide hotel and hospitality employees with new safety and health training, and resources.
The alliance seeks to reduce and prevent employees' exposure to common industry hazards through training and education programs for the tourism industry. Training will focus on such issues as fire protection, hazard communication and the use of personal protective equipment.
The alliance partners will also work together to develop a workplace safety and health curriculum, conduct outreach activities, and share best practices and effective approaches to safety and health. They will cooperate to address specific issues identified through the alliance and encourage Hotel and Tourist Association members and worksites to build relationships with OSHA offices and participate in OSHA's cooperative programs.
"This is an investment that should reap dividends for all participants," said Jose A. Carpena, OSHA's area director for the Caribbean. "Our goals are fewer injuries and illnesses, lower workers compensation rates, fewer violations of safety and health standards and an involved, aware and productive workforce."
The alliance was signed Dec. 5, 2006, on St. Thomas by Clark and Carpena of OSHA; Beverly Nicholson Doty, president, USVIHTA; and Ilene Heyward-Garner, director, "Safety in Paradise."
For information about this and other OSHA alliances and partnerships in the Caribbean, contact the compliance assistance specialist in OSHA's Puerto Rico area office at 787- 277-1560.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. For more information, visit OSHA's Web site at www.osha.gov.
