The Huntsville Madison County Builders Association (HMCBA) has been selected as a Host Training Organization by Volunteer State Community College’s OSHA Training Institute (OTI) Education Center.

OTI Education Centers offer courses designed to reduce workplace fatalities and injuries by teaching the application of OSHA standards for hazard recognition and prevention. OSHA authorizes OTI Education Centers to deliver occupational safety and health training to workers in both public and private sectors.

North Alabama was recently reminded of the critical importance of adhering to OSHA regulations by a tragic incident at an Athens lumber shipping yard, operated by Sunbelt Forest Products, in November of 2021. A worker was struck and killed by a forklift as she walked across the yard.

OSHA launched an investigation into the incident, and released its findings on May 23.

The investigation has found that the accident was caused by a failure to follow federal safety standards. Specifically, the company failed to distinguish and mark shipping department travel aisles for trucks, forklifts, and pedestrians, allowing workers to cross lanes where forklift operators could not see them. Additionally, the investigation found that the company failed to require forklift drivers to maintain a clear view of the driving path, and did not remove damaged forklifts from service.

“A forklift typically weighs between 4,000 and 9,000 pounds, and poses a risk of severe injury or death to workers who may be struck by this equipment,” said OSHA Area Office Director Roman Morris. “Employers must take precautions in workplaces that use powered industrial vehicles to prevent devastating incidents and the loss of someone’s life.”

OSHA has proposed almost $54,000 in penalties to Sunbelt Forest Products. The Athens-based lumber manufacturer has fifteen days from the receipt of the citations and penalties to comply or contest the findings.

The incident, and its aftermath, are a sobering reminder of the potential consequences for failing to adhere to OSHA standards. Fortunately, OIT Education Centers are prepared to offer courses both in-person and online, and on an individual or organizational basis. Those interested should consult their website at www.volstate.edu/workforce/osha.

As a professional trade organization, the HMCBA promotes the building industry and has previously contributed to educational programs for workers looking to develop in the profession. Partnering with VSCC is the logical progression of that mission.

“The agreement between our two institutions allows us to support OSHA’s mission to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers through education and training,” says Barry Oxley, Executive Officer of the HMCBA.

The schedule of courses will be announced soon. Further information on the builders’ courses can be found at the HMCBA’s website at https://hmcba.org.