ABC launches safe and healthy construction pledge

From ABC National

WASHINGTON, D.C. May 28, 2020—Associated Builders and Contractors recently launched the Safe and Healthy Construction Pledge, an industry-wide call to action to redouble construction jobsite safety commitments under new protocols due to the coronavirus outbreak. Open to all U.S. contractors and industry associations, the pledge calls for prevention, preparedness and response plans to prevent injuries and disease and safeguard total human health.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the critical need for leadership commitment to construction worker safety and health by every contractor in America,” said Greg Sizemore, ABC’s vice president of health, safety, environment and workforce development. “While ABC members are already evaluating and mitigating the risks associated with COVID-19 on jobsites every day, this pledge signals a significant and permanent paradigm shift to raise the bar on safety, total human health and hygiene protocols on construction jobsites in the months and years to come.”

In addition to the Safe and Healthy Construction Pledge, the website includes industry-specific emergency preparedness and safety information, including best practices for COVID-19 prevention, total human health and personal protective equipment, as well as a list of resources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Occupational Health and Safety Administration.

ABC and its 69 chapters strive to provide all members with the knowledge and tools to achieve world-class health, safety, wellness and environment in the construction industry. ABC administers the STEP Safety Management System, which proves that world-class safety is achievable with a company-wide commitment to safety as a core value, and is an active member of the Construction Coalition for a Drug- and Alcohol-free Workplace and the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention.

To learn more and sign the pledge, visit safeandhealthyconstruction.org.