OSHA, FCC to host workshop on preventing tower-worker deaths

Washington – Business leaders and government agencies are scheduled to host a workshop on Oct. 14 to discuss how to prevent deaths and injuries in the telecommunications industry.

Eleven workers have died this year during the construction or repair of cell towers, and 13 died in 2013, according to an OSHA press release.

The workshops – led by OSHA – also will feature panel discussions on how to identify and adapt best practices in the industry. Representatives from OSHA, the Federal Communications Commission, AT&T and the National Association of Tower Erectors are slated to participate on the panel.

To close out the workshop, a signing ceremony featuring Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez and FCC Chairman Thomas Wheeler will commemorate the launch of the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program. The program aims to provide high-quality training for tower technicians.

The free workshop also is available via webcast at 9 a.m. Eastern.