REPORT: June 2006

NYSNA renews alliance with OSHA to provide safer workplaces for RNs

by Rolando Tomas Infante

On May 22, representatives from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) paid a special visit to NYSNA’s Manhattan office to renew its accord to foster safer workplaces for New York’s RNs. The pact was initiated in 2002.

The alliance enables NYSNA to collaborate with OSHA and the New York State Department of Labor’s On-Site Consultation Program to prevent injuries and illnesses in the workplace. The agreement addresses training and education, outreach and communication, and promotes a dialogue on workplace safety and health.

OSHA was represented at the meeting by Diana Cortez, area director of its Tarrytown region; and Thomas J. McCarthy, compliance assistance specialist. The two will work with NYSNA to provide general information about OSHA standards and compliance assistance resources. McCarthy will conduct OSHA seminars and workshops, and promote OSHA’s training resources.

“Through various activities, we can show employers and employees that we’re serious about health and safety,” said Thomas Lowe, NYSNA’s occupational safety and health representative. “NYSNA, together with OSHA, will continue to address critical health and safety issues — such as ergonomics, chemical safety, and workplace violence. These affect not only our nurses, but also the patients they care for.”

According to Lowe, NYSNA members will receive information, guidance, and access to training resources collaboratively developed between OSHA and NYSNA that are designed to help protect their health and safety by reducing and preventing exposure to workplace violence, chemical hazards, and ergonomic injuries.

“The renewal of this alliance demonstrates NYSNA’s commitment to workplace health and safety,” Lowe added. “Among our main goals when we formed this alliance four years ago was to address the health and safety needs of our members in their workplace environment. We believe this program will result in lower rates of injuries, fewer grievances, and increased job satisfaction among nurses.”