| A new program in the
Tri-State will prevent accidents and save lives. The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and
firefighters are joining to make sure workplaces are
safe. The alliance is the first of its kind in the
nation. "The initial call was for a heart attack, and we
walk into an exposure," said Fire Chief Kevin Kaiser,
Hamilton County Fire Chief's Association. That's just
one example of the dangers facing Tri-State workers and
the folks charged to save them. February's deadly
industrial gas leak in Reading, along with a peppering
of construction site trench tragedies were a catalyst
for change. "There's
just a myriad of hazards that employees and firemen can
be exposed to," said Richard Gilgrist, OSHA. Friday the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration along with
Hamilton County's Fire Chief's Association signed a
first of its kind safety alliance. "We're in the
industry of doing inspections and other safety
programs," said Chief Kaiser. "It pools our resources
together so we're more effective in impacting safety in
the workplace."
Joelle Girone: "Like a police
officer, the alliance would allow firefighters to patrol
work sites, any safety problems would then be reported
to OSHA." "If a contractor complies, no problem," said
Chief Kaiser. "Everything is safe and work goes on. If
there's resistance, of course OSHA steps in and takes it
from there." With around 80,000 employers in our area,
and just 20 local inspectors, OSHA has its hands full.
The alliance would train fire crews how to inspect all
work sites, and then how to respond in case of an
emergency. It would also train OSHA on the fire
departments' tactics. Organizers say benefits will
include increased work safety and response, while saving
taxpayers the cash tragedies can cost. "You always have
to be aware when you approach the scene of what the
dangers may be," said Chief Kaiser. Alliance organizers
say they've already had other counties, including
Warren, express interest in getting involved in the
program
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