Trusted Training: Training At-Risk Workers and Potential Workers at Department of Energy Sites to Assess and Improve Health and Safety Conditions

Steelworker Charitable And Educational Organization, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The Steelworkers Charitable and Educational Organization (SCEO), the non-profit [501(c)(3)] arm of the United Steelworkers (USW), is applying for funds to conduct HAZWOPER training with workers and with Tribal and community partners at 12 sites within the DOE Nuclear Weapons Complex. The training division of the SCEO, the Tony Mazzocchi Center (TMC), is a partnership of USW, Communications Workers of America, the Labor Institute and two worker centers: The National Day Laborers Organizing Network and Make the Road New York. Over the next five years we will conduct 1,920 classes reaching 29,950 DOE site workers, Tribal members and community residents with 372,900 hours of training. By developing a cadre of 70 worker- trainers, TMC will conduct a full range of health and safety courses required by DOE or otherwise needed by USW and CWA DOE site workers and by Tribal Partners and community collaborators. In addition to the usual menu of classes, the TMC is expanding to include a new project: Emerging Technology Working Group and Curriculum Team The Emerging Technologies Working Group and Curriculum Team will explore the impact on H&S at DOE sites and nearby communities of emergency technologies. Our team of 25 workers and experts will meet biannually to 1) identify new technologies; 2) develop pilot training programs on hazards and possible benefits of those technologies; and 3) enhance the technical understanding of our DOE program WTs. TMC is reapplying for support because: 1) We have access to 4,660 USW and CWA DOE site workers exposed serious hazards; 2) We have conducted analyses, in cooperation with DOE and contractors, to identify training needs and hazardous conditions facing DOE site workers; 3) We have an experienced program with the largest industrial training capacity in the US; 4) We have an expert evaluation team, supported by Dr. Michael Young from Robert Morris University to develop rigorous and continuous program assessment; and 5) We can reach community members near DOE sites, including through educational partnerships with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, Yakama and Nez Perce Tribal Councils.