OSHA, Manhattan Construction Florida partner to promote workplace safety

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has signed a strategic partnership with Naples, Florida-based Manhattan Construction Florida Inc. to promote worker safety and health at the Southwest Florida International Airport expansion project in Fort Myers. The University of South Florida On-site Safety and Health Consultation Program is also a partner in the effort.

According to a release, the partnership seeks to prevent worker injuries and exposure to hazards during a terminal expansion construction project by developing a contractor-government approach to safety and health.

Participants will focus on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and heat illness prevention; hazards related to falls; struck-by and caught-in objects; electrical equipment and work practices; fire protection and prevention; safe use of hand and power tools; and silica and noise exposure. The partnership will also encourage contractors to develop and implement safety and health programs, and provide safety and health training to employees, employers and supervisors.

“Worker safety and health partnerships rely on the collaboration between OSHA, management and labor to leverage resources and maximize results,” said OSHA Area Office Director Danelle Jindra in Tampa, Florida. “While each partnership is unique, they all demonstrate a commitment to ensuring all workers end their workday safely.”

The Southwest Florida International Airport expansion project includes constructing a connector between the three existing concourses, consolidating the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints, as well as providing additional seating, concession spaces and a business lounge. In total, more than 164,000 square feet of space will be remodeled, and 117,000 square feet of space will be added to the airport terminal.