The state agency that polices workplace safety has signed a “partnership agreement” with the Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa. The agreement between the Iowa Occupational and Safety Health Administration and the contractors is an effort to increase safety according to Labor Commissioner Byron Orton, who says it’s the first agreement of its kind in Iowa.The agreement will give OSHA access to dozens of construction sites to ensure that workers are complying with safety regulations. Orton says contractors and builders sign up by promising to meet a few requirements.Those who meet the requirements of the agreement are recognized annually for their performance — winning a bronze, silver, gold or platinum award — depending on how well they did. Orton believes this agreement will do a lot to increase safety in the state as he says he prefers to work with the industry as a partner rather than an adversary.A-B-C has approximately 400 members in Iowa. Orton says OSHA is looking to sign agreements with other contractors and builders not affiliated with A-B-C.
