Department of Labor Offering Safety Classes for Employers in August

July 30, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2014

Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, 207-621-5009

Space is available for the safety classes in Augusta

AUGUSTA?The Maine Department of Labor?s Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers this month in Augusta.

?Safety helps both businesses and workers,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?When employers and employees know how to do the right thing, businesses are better and safer places to work. This also helps our job creators retain and recruit employees while also lowering costs. It?s a win for everyone.?

These courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees to ensure and promote safety in the workplace. The courses are held at the SafetyWorks! Institute at the Maine Department of Labor on Commerce Drive in Augusta.

Public Works Safety Services - July 30, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and July 31, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This two-day course is designed to cover numerous topics relating to public works type agencies, including workzone set up and flagging.

Ladder Safety - August 5, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ladders are a major source of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. However, falls can be reduced if people use caution when climbing ladders or when working in places where falls are a potential hazard. This course will show participants how falls from ladders can be prevented through education that includes planning for their use, inspecting the ladder prior to use and using basic ladder safeguards.

Noise and Hearing Protection - August 21, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This class will cover effects of noise on hearing, hearing protection, health standards and OSHA requirements.

Auto Lift/Jack and Jack Stand Compliance - September 11, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This class will cover types of automotive lifts, jacks and jack stands, proper use, inspection and compliance criterion.

Employers interested in registering can learn more and register at http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Safetyworks_Classes&v=ListAll . Space is limited so reservations are required.

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine?s regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine?s workforce.

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