The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Clarion University Small Business Development Center (Clarion University SBDC) recently formed an alliance to educate small businesses in Pennsylvania on workplace safety and health hazards.

During this two-year alliance, OSHA and the Clarion University SBDC will work together to develop educational programs on reducing workplace hazards in construction and general industry, provide information at workforce education events, and promote free safety and health services provided by the Pennsylvania OSHA Consultation Service, an alliance co-signer.

“Our alliance will ensure small businesses are provided information to help establish effective safety and health programs, and prevent serious workplace hazards,” said Brendan Claybaugh, OSHA Erie Area Office Director.

The mission of the Clarion University SBDC is to promote economic growth in western Pennsylvania by providing entrepreneurs with the education, information, and tools necessary to build successful businesses.

Through its Alliance Program, OSHA fosters collaborative relationships with groups committed to worker safety and health, such as trade and professional organizations, unions, consulates, faith- and community-based organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. Alliance partners help OSHA reach targeted audiences, such as employers and workers in high-hazard industries, and give them better access to workplace safety and health tools and information.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.