Makita Global
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FEBRUARY 13, 2009, La Mirada, CA — Makita U.S.A., Inc. and Wrangler® Western Wear have teamed up to provide free bi-lingual construction safety training in an effort to increase jobsite safety awareness. The classes, in conjunction with local branches of the Hispanic Contractors Association, are taking place in Denver and Dallas and are part of a larger effort by Makita to engage the Hispanic contractor.
The safety training course is free-of-charge and approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The course covers the four major hazards encountered regularly on construction sites: falls, electrical injuries, and caught-in and struck-by hazards. The training focuses on the methods of recognition and prevention of these common hazards. Upon completing the training, students receive the OSHA 10-hour Certification Card.
“Hispanics comprise 25 percent of the construction-industry workforce,” said Helga Grunerud, Executive Director of HCC. “However, Hispanics in this industry are injured at a disproportionately higher rate than non-Hispanics due in part to a lack of proper training,”
For Makita, extending OSHA-certified safety training to more contractors is an important opportunity.
“Teaching the safe use of power tools on jobsites is an ongoing initiative for Makita,” said Ken Hefley, senior vice president of marketing at Makita. “Hispanic contractors make up 25 percent of the total U.S. building maintenance and construction workforce, so reaching these contractors with OSHA-certified training is vital.”
The first training course took place on February 13, 2009 at the Denver headquarters of the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado. The second event is co-sponsored by the Hispanic Contractors Association de Tejas and takes place on February 21, 2009 at Richland College in Dallas.
Sponsors Makita and Wrangler are joined by Rockstar, which is donating energy drinks to both events. Makita and Rockstar are currently team sponsor partners in a variety of power sports including Supercross, Motocross, and off-road racing.
Makita’s Focus on the Hispanic Contractor
Makita’s sponsorship of the event is consistent with the brand’s focus on the Hispanic Contractor and jobsite safety. Makita is the Official Power Tool Sponsor of Major League Soccer, as well as the Mexican National Soccer Team (FMF). Makita’s sales personnel offer power tool safety training on jobsites. More recently, the company launched a “Build your Dreams” campaign that focuses on the benefits realized by Hispanic contractors who use Makita power tools.
“The Hispanic contractor is a vital part of the U.S. construction industry, and our participation in soccer and our new ‘Build Your Dreams’ campaign allows us to make a connection,” said Raquel Navarrete, marketing specialist, emerging markets at Makita. “Jobsite safety is another top initiative for Makita, so our partnership with Wrangler Western Wear on this important issue is a true win-win for everyone involved.”
About HCC
Founded in 1990, the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado (HCC) is the largest Colorado contracting association representing minorities, women and small businesses. HCC is recognized for depth of commitment, industry knowledge and inclusiveness. For more information about HCC, visit www.hispanic-contractors.org
About HCAT
The Hispanic Contractors Association De Tejas was formed to address the needs of one of the fastest growing sectors of the construction industry. In addition in giving voice to the business and political concerns of its members, Hispanic Contractors Association De Tejas serves the community through its outreach program. For more information, visit www.hcadetejas.org
About Rockstar: Bigger. Better. Faster. Stronger.
ROCKSTAR is the world\'s most powerful energy drink. Enhanced with the potent herbal blends of Guarana, Ginkgo, Ginseng and Milk Thistle, ROCKSTAR is scientifically formulated to provide an incredible energy boost for those who lead active and exhausting lifestyles—from athletes to rock stars. PARTY LIKE A ROCKSTAR!
About Wrangler
Wrangler® Western Wear is available at more than 2,500 nationwide western-specialty, mid-tier, and workwear stores that provide quality men’s and women’s apparel and accessories. For more information regarding the Wrangler family of products or to locate the Wrangler retailer nearest you, visit www.wranglerwestern.com or call 1.888.784.8571.
About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools, and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita’s new, innovative Lithium-Ion Cordless Power Tool Series has a three-year warranty on the tool and a one-year warranty on the battery and charger in the U.S. All Makita tools are covered by a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship, and may be serviced at any Makita Factory Service Center or Authorized Service Center nationwide. Makita USA, Inc. is located in La Mirada, California and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 1-800-4-MAKITA (1-800-462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com.
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