[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 5642]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFETY WEEK

 Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, the construction industry plays a 
major role in promoting economic growth, employing workers across a 
variety of trades, and literally building communities. It is a noble 
profession, yet today it remains one of the most dangerous occupations. 
Building codes and workplace safety regulations have made great strides 
but there is more to be done. We all share a responsibility to ensure 
that men and women who offer their most valuable asset--their labor--
not only earn fair wages but also work in safe environments so they can 
safely return home after every shift.
  I am proud that in my hometown of Portland, OR, various public, 
private and nonprofit stakeholders have formed the SafeBuild Alliance 
to promote and share best practices for worksite safety. This 
collaboration is so important because we know that with proper 
planning, communication and controls, reducing workplace injuries and 
fatalities is not only possible, it is already happening.
  The SafeBuild Alliance is leading the way with its Zero Incidents 
Through Collaboration initiative, which facilitates safe performance by 
promoting the sharing of best practices among industry professionals. 
From general contractors to property owners, public and private 
entities, architects and engineers, to building and construction trade 
associations, industry vendors and insurers--everyone has a role in 
promoting safe worksites.
  It is my great privilege to recognize the Safebuild Alliance for 
their work and advocacy for safe workplaces on behalf of all our 
workers engaged in the construction industry. Safety must be priority 
No. 1, every job, every day. And to further heighten awareness, I am 
pleased to offer my support in the official observance of May 3 to 9, 
2015 as Construction Industry Safety Week.

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