Dozens of Residents Attend Free OSHA Training Co-Hosted by Sanders in Jamaica

Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village) partnered with the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery to host a free OSHA 10 General Construction Outreach Safety and Training Course at the Baisley Houses Community Center in South Jamaica on Monday, July 25 and Tuesday, July 26.
 
“I am proud to support the residents of the Baisley Houses in their pursuit of an opportunity that doesn’t come every day,” Sanders said. “Whether you’re acquiring your first OSHA card or already have experience as a safety professional, this is a diligent step that sends a clear message to employers that you are sincere.”
 
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) is part of the U.S. Department of Labor and its mission is to ensure safe, healthy working conditions for both men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.
 
Some 40 people attended the two-day, ten-hour course which taught attendees how to recognize hazardous worksite conditions and implement safety prevention measures, focusing on material handling, hand and power tools, scaffolds, stairways and ladders, excavations, electricity, personal protective equipment, fall protection and cranes. In addition, workers’ rights, employer responsibility and how to file a complaint were discussed.
 
Obtaining an OHSA 10 card may help improve one’s chances of obtaining entry-level jobs in the construction field such as general cleanup positions and providing temporary traffic control known as flagging.
 
All of the attendees were eager to participate in the training course, which can cost close to $200, but which was offered to them for free.  
 
Rahshom Leach, a resident of the Baisley Houses, stated that once he receives his OSHA card he will begin visiting construction sites in search of any available opportunities. “I refuse to be in the same position, not making any progress,” he said. “I am looking for a stepping stone.”
 
Authorized OSHA trainer and instructor Ray Emmanuel of Amethyst Environmental Consulting, LLC, who conducted the class, stated that health and safety are the number one priority. “I want to ensure that people receive the proper training regardless of whether you’re an employer or employee in order to get the job done,” he said.