USITT and IATSE renew partership with OSHA

OSHA regularly enters into alliances with trade groups, labor unions and other organizations to help them learn more about their rights and responsibilities in the workplace. Both employees and employers in South Carolina and elsewhere may benefit from taking part in the Alliance Program. Recently, OSHA renewed its alliance with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT).

The USITT is a trade group while the IATSE is a labor union that represents those who work in live-action theatrical presentations. The alliance will continue for the next five years and provide educational and other informational resources. For example, the alliance members will get information about rulemaking and educational programs, including the Safe + Sound Campaign for Safety and Health Programs. These resources will help educate members about OSHA regulations related to falls, electrical hazards and injuries that could be related to ergonomic issues.

Employers that are covered by OSHA regulations must provide a safe and healthy workplace for all workers. Their obligation to do so is covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. OSHA is the organization that enforces these regulations in addition to helping employers and employees learn more about their rights and responsibilities.

Individuals who become hurt or sick after being exposed to unsafe working conditions may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Unsafe working conditions may include exposure to chemicals or being asked to perform a task without proper safety equipment. A worker may be entitled to benefits even if he or she was partially or wholly at fault for causing it. An attorney may help those who have questions about the application process or have had an initial benefit claim denied by their employers’ workers’ compensation insurance provider.