CRANSTON-Workforce regulations and occupational safety are the combined topics in the latest offering in the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) "Knowledge Is Power!" Employer Education Series. This free seminar is open to the public and will be held at the DLT offices, 1511 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, on Wednesday, Oct. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Pre-registration is required and can be completed online at www.dlt.ri.gov/EmployerSeminars.htm.

"The information available through the Workforce Regulations and Occupational Safety seminar can guide employers in creating safe work environments for their employees," noted Kathy Serrecchia, Assistant Director of Workforce Regulation and Safety.

The Workforce Regulation portion of the seminar covers various trade requirements, apprenticeship regulations and mandated safety education programs. DLT representatives will also review field-specific rules and regulations governing apprenticeship programs which may assure a skilled workforce.

The Occupational Safety portion reviews mandated health and safety standards for devices such as boilers and elevators; for hazardous substances; and for public buildings and educational facilities. Attendees will be advised of the proper use, storage and record keeping for hazardous substances. Approximately 3,400 elevator and lifting devices were inspected in 2006. In addition, approximately 9,800 employers registered with the DLT unit responsible for maintaining a list of hazardous substances in use on-site at Rhode Island businesses.

Future Knowledge Is Power! Employer Education workshops include:

Wage and Labor Laws	Monday, Sept. 24 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM Friday,Sept. 28 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Workers' Compensation	Thursday, Oct. 11 8:30 AM - Noon Thursday, Nov. 8 8:30 AM - Noon Wednesday, Dec. 5 8:30 AM - Noon
Resources for Ocean State Employers	Tuesday, Oct. 16 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Tuesday, Dec. 11 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Key Statistics The enforcement of trade licensing prompted approximately 9,000 field investigations and 250 hearings before licensing boards in 2006, which resulted in the collection of approximately $264,000 in fines. In 2006, Rhode Island registered more than 2,000 apprentices in such professions as automotive technicians; bricklayers; child care development specialist; pharmacy assistants; pipefitters; and veterinary assistants. Approximately 3,400 elevator and lifting devices were inspected in 2006. Approximately 9,800 employers registered with the DLT unit responsible for maintaining a list of hazardous substances in use on-site at Rhode Island businesses.

For more on the DLT Employer Education Series, go to www.dlt.ri.gov/EmployerSeminars.htm. Pre-registration is required for all seminars. For more information or to register for the Workforce Regulations/Occupational Safety seminar, call 1-888-616-JOBS.

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The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training offers a wide array of employment and training services to both the general public and to individuals with unusual barriers to employment. DLT is ready to assist any job seeker, whether the goal is a first job, a better job, or a career change. Rhode Island's work force is protected through the enforcement of labor laws, prevailing wage rates, and work place health and safety standards. Temporary income support is available to unemployed, sick, or injured workers and a comprehensive rehabilitation program is available to those injured on the job.

DLT is dedicated to the growth and competitiveness of Rhode Island industry, administering a variety of training grants, tax credits, and apprenticeship programs to help employers. Economic indicators and labor market information are available for long-range planning. The Agency engages in active outreach, helping large and small employers retain their best workers or retrain their existing work force. At no cost to the employer, DLT will also screen job applicants, post job vacancies, and help businesses institute cost-sharing programs that can avert layoffs.

For more information on the innovative programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders at the Department of Labor and Training, please call (401) 462-8000 or visit the web site at www.dlt.ri.gov