Partnership provides for work-zone safety training in Md.

More than 250 Maryland transportation officials are now better equipped to recognize and address hazards facing motorists and workers in roadway work zones thanks to a unique partnership between two state agencies and the U.S. transportation construction industry.

Last June, the Maryland State Highway Administration and Maryland Occupational Safety and Health Administration signed a first-of-its kind alliance for the purpose of bolstering interagency cooperation and achieving their respective missions of "reducing the number of injuries and illnesses at roadway work zones."

Under the alliance, the agencies selected the Washington, D.C.-based American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) to conduct its "OSHA 10-Hour Safety Program," which is focused directly on educating industry professionals about the hazards and situations roadway construction workers face. Topics covered include the prevention of nighttime construction hazards, fall protection, equipment operations and "run-overs" and "back-overs."

ARTBA Director of Safety and Health Jerry Teeler conducted the training for the Maryland officials during the last quarter of 2006.

The association said it is committed to working with other state transportation, safety and health agencies to develop similar training programs.