Pipeline Construction Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration partnered with the American Pipeline Contractors Association in 2007 to implement safety and health standards for pipeline construction. OSHA and APCA focus on developing safety standards for reducing and preventing exposure to dangerous equipment operation.

Training and Education

• The APCA works with OSHA to create safety training and education programs within the pipeline industry. Safety training and education has been specifically developed for small businesses, non-English and limited English speaking employees regarding the use of equipment operation. This information is presented in English and Spanish. OSHA and the APCA also concentrate on developing safety standards for trenching, excavation and hydrostatic testing hazards.

Outreach and Communication

• OSHA shares important information regarding best practices and effective approaches for construction safety with the APCA. OSHA publishes these findings for the APCA and helps the organization to implement safety standards through developed materials, training programs, workshops, seminars and lectures.

Best Practices

• Best practices fact sheets that have been created by OSHA and APCA include safety procedures for backhoe operations, dozer operations, and excavation and trenching. These fact sheets communicate how to work with heavy duty equipment and how to conduct pressure testing. Best practices fact sheets are also tailored specifically for workers and supervisors.