DOL Launches Workplace Safety Program for Landscape Businesses

The program specifically serves New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

January 16, 2024

 The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently announced the launching of a multiyear, “regional emphasis” program designed to reduce worker fatalities and injuries within tree trimming and landscape services industries in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The new Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) program includes two elements. First, the program will provide initial and ongoing outreach to employers, employees, and stakeholders to raise their awareness of the hazards associated with tree trimming and landscape operations. Second, OSHA will conduct targeted safety and health inspections of tree trimming and removal, landscaping services, and site preparation contractors, to assess employer compliance and reduce employees’ exposure to hazards, which include those associated with the use of heavy equipment, such as stump grinders and chippers, and working at elevated levels.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 222 workers in these industries suffered fatal workplace injuries and illnesses nationwide in 2022. Causes included falls from trees and elevated work platforms, electrocution, heat and chemical exposures, and being struck by vehicles, as well as falling trees and branches.

“We want to make these workplaces safer for all workers in this industry,” said Richard Mendelson, OSHA regional administrator in New York. “By intensifying our focus on the tree and landscaping industries, we can help employers provide effective management of worker safety and health protection to reduce the extent and severity of work-related injuries and illnesses.”

OSHA encourages small business employers to use the agency’s On-Site Consultation Program, which provides no-cost assistance with safety strategies, as well as federal safety and health standards compliance.

The program is scheduled to run through fall 2028. 

Latest Articles

The Sustainability Movement Is Not Just Another Hashtag
August 28, 2025 Stephen P. Ashkin

The Sustainability Movement Is Not Just Another Hashtag

August 28, 2025 Jeff Cross

The Testimonial Trap: Your Best Sales Tool—Or Your Biggest Blind Spot?

August 27, 2025 Jeff Cross

Excelling to $4M From Grassroots, Branding, and Social Media

Sponsored Articles

Future-Proofing Facility Care—Supply Chain Strategies for Tomorrow
August 26, 2025

Future-Proofing Facility Care—Supply Chain Strategies for Tomorrow

August 18, 2025

Everyday Champions: Facility Professionals Recognition Program

August 6, 2025

Your Public Restroom Could Be Costing You: Why Inclusive Hygiene Matters

Recent News

U.S. Janitorial Services Market to Reach $100B by 2033

U.S. Janitorial Services Market to Reach $100B by 2033

First Projects Achieve LEED v5 Certification

Rare Human Case of ‘Flesh-eating’ Screwworm Identified in US