New York State is estimated to lose $10 billion to workplace injuries every year. Further, studies revealed that three in four employees are afraid of addressing workplace hazards because of the possibility of retaliation by their employers, or are simply unaware of the course of action they could take in such situations.
These are the issues Governor Andrew M. Cuomo hopes to address as he launched a $5 million education and training grant. Aimed at improving occupational health and safety conditions among low wage industries, the grant specifically targets business sectors with high injury rates, which often employ immigrant workers.
“From recovering millions of dollars in back wages, to cracking down on dangerous conditions in the nail salon industry, this administration has continued New York’s proud tradition of standing up for our hardworking men and women,” Governor Cuomo noted. “These grants will help protect some of our most vulnerable New Yorkers against occupational health and safety hazards and is another step toward a better, safer and more just New York for all.”
The grant targets the construction, agriculture, dry cleaning, landscaping and hospitality industries.
Funds will be channelled through community based organizations, direct service providers, occupational health and safety clinics, and other non-profit organizations. The grants will provide training and education, and assistance to workers, advocates and enterprises.
