Groups renew campaign to protect ironworkers

Washington – The Iron Workers Union and the Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust have renewed their Countdown to Zero campaign to help reduce fatalities among ironworkers.

Last year, the campaign – which aims to reach the goal of zero fatalities in the industry – resulted in a 59 percent drop in the average yearly fatality rate among ironworkers compared to 2007-2011, according to a press release.

The campaign will address the “deadly dozen hazardous activities” and provide visual reminders of safety (such as posters) to District Councils, local unions and apprenticeship training facilities. Some of the hazards include falling through unprotected floor opening covers, lack of fall protection, struck-by injuries from falling objects and tools, and electrical hazards from high-voltage power lines.