OSHA Breezes Into Alliance with Wind Energy Association

Green jobs and wind energy might be good for the environment, but that doesn’t mean worker safety has to take a backseat to saving the planet. In an effort to protect workers from possible hazards involved in the wind energy industry, OSHA joined an alliance with the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) on Aug. 8.

Laura Walter

Aug. 9, 2011

The 2-year alliance agreement aims to prevent occupational exposure to electrical, crane and fall hazards in the wind energy industry. OSHA and AWEA intend to develop materials for workers that address wind energy maintenance and operations hazards; hold forums to discuss hazards; and raise awareness of OSHA’s rulemaking and enforcement initiatives.

AWEA is a national trade association representing 2,500 member companies such as wind turbine manufacturers and component suppliers, utilities and renewable energy supporters and researchers. Approximately 85,000 workers are employed by AWEA members.

“As part of the emerging green jobs industry, wind energy jobs promise to be kinder to our environment and transform our economy. But these jobs are not necessarily safer for American workers,” said OSHA Administrator Dr. David Michaels. “I am confident that our Alliance with AWEA will further OSHA’s mission to ensure that wind energy workers are protected from preventable injuries and death.”

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.