2009 Agenda for Protecting Workers on the Job

Hot of the presses is a 2009 federal agenda for protecting the health and safety of U.S. workers. The agenda, crafted through a partnership between the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health and the American Public Health Association's Occupational Health and Safety Section, outlines seven initiatives that they intend to make a priority for the New Year. These seven initiatives include:

• Take efforts to make health and safety of workers a top priority with the President and Congress.
• Remain vigilant in the enforcement of current workplace regulations, as well as promote new worker protections and research.
• Increase funding for both federal and state health tracking programs.
• Focus on reducing rates of death, injuries and illnesses related to the most contributing, dangerous work conditions.
• Make available fair and manageable costs associated to workplace injuries and illnesses by reforming current worker compensation programs.
• Take steps to eliminate or drastically reduce the amount of toxic chemicals used in the workplace to create a safer environment for both employees and surrounding communities.

The 2009 agenda has been heralded and supported by a dizzying number of worker-related organizations. As of this posting, approximately 65 organizations have stepped forward to publicly support the program. Notable backers include the Clean Water Action, Citizens' Environmental Coalition, The Ecology Center, Farmworker Health and Safety Institute, International Chemical Workers Union and the Young Workers Health and Safety Network.

Tools and Tips for Improving Safety at Your Workplace

The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health is a federal organization dedicated to promoting safety in the workplace. Along with creating legislation and regulations designed to improve the health and well being of U.S. employees, the organization also provides a variety of resources to employers seeking to improve job safety. Many of these resources are available on the National COSH website, at the following link:

http://www.coshnetwork.org/

The Controlling Hazards booklet (borrowed from the International Labour Organization) offers a straightforward plan of action for "prevent(ing) workers from being exposed to occupational hazards." The instructional booklet offers universal tips that are helpful regardless of industry. The National COSH also presents an easy-to-read chart that suggests the best ways to control hazards.

Another tool for improving worker safety offered by the organization is a training booklet that explains the benefits of creating health and safety committees at work. Mechanisms for creating and sustaining an effective health and safety committee are also discussed.

A Factory Workers' Guide to Organizing for Safe Jobs and Healthy Communities is also endorsed by the National COSH. The booklet provides safety tips and information specifically designed for employees and employers located in export processing zones.