Continued outreach and education were themes embraced on both sides of the table as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and MHI overhead lifting product groups extended their alliance for a further five years on Feb. 2, 2016. MHI’s overhead product groups are the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) , Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) and Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA ). Through its Alliance Program, OSHA works with unions, consulates, trade and professional organizations, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses, and educational institutions to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. It is particularly keen to reduce worker exposures to electrical shock, electrocution, falls from elevation, and being struck by moving equipment through the latest alliance renewal. "Our alliance with these groups has been invaluable in helping to reduce and prevent serious or fatal incidents in the material handling industry," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "We will continue to focus on efforts and resources that implement best industry practices that help keep crane, hoist, and monorail operators safe and healthy. Matthew Smurr, managing executive of the overhead groups and senior director, MHI solution and product groups said the alliance "is a direct and valuable connection to the U.S. regulatory agency for workplace safety that is beneficial to both sides." "The renewal of the alliance is a huge validation of the CMAA’s commitment to provide a safe product," said Chris Becker, president of CMAA and member company G.W. Becker Inc. "Our members manufacture the safest overhead lifting equipment available to end users, supported by the best possible information and literature, but the OSHA alliance adds significant validity to that message." The original Alliance was signed in October 2005, with subsequent renewals following since. OSHA originally established an Alliance Program in March 2002 to […]