Strategic Partnership for Excellence in Safety SPECS

Did your company achieve STEP Gold, Platinum, or Diamond? Then you may be eligible for SPECS!

What is SPECS?
SPECS is a strategic partnership agreement between Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) and Maryland Chapters of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). This multi-level agreement recognizes the importance of providing a safe and healthful work environment in the construction industry. SPECS:

  • Encourages general contractors and subcontractors to develop exceptional safety and health management systems.
  • Reduces the number of injuries, illnesses and fatalities affecting contractor employees.
  • Focuses on eliminating injuries and fatalities resulting from the four leading causes of death on construction sites: falls, struck-by, caught in/or between, electrocutions.
  • Recognizes those construction employers who go beyond basic compliance with all applicable MOSH standards.
  • Provides mentorship to those employers who are seeking a higher level of safety and health program.

How do I become an eligible contractor?
  • Be a contractor or subcontractor on a Maryland jobsite(s).
  • Be an ABC Member and meet the requirements of the ABC STEP program – Gold Level or higher.
  • Provide a designated representative with responsibility, authority, and capability to implement site safety and health programs.
  • Submit an application for review and a worksite evaluation.
  • Have a safety and health management system that includes leadership and employee engagement, worksite analysis, hazard prevention and control, and safety training.
  • Meet safety performance criteria (TRCR/DART rates and/or EMR rates).

Benefits of SPECS Agreement**
  • Provides for a safer working environment for employees.
  • Increases communication with MOSH through partnering.
  • Provides community and industry recognition by ABC and MOSH.
  • Provides incentives to all construction employers for their achievement of effective and successful safety and management systems.
  • Employers may reduce project expenses by eliminating penalties and litigation cost for promptly abated alleged hazards.
  • Level 3 may designate a job site for exemption from programmed inspections for up to two years.
  • On-site assistance provided by MOSH.

  ** Contact ABC or MOSH for information and full terms of the agreement. www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/mosh 

Learn more:
MOSH SPECS Program Manager
10946 Golden West Drive, Suite 160
Hunt Valley, MD 21031
410-527-4469