The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has designated Aug. 13-19 as Safe + Sound Week, a new nationwide effort that calls on all organizations to raise awareness of the importance of workplace safety and health programs.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association, American Society of Safety Engineers, Center for Construction Research and Training, National Safety Council, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and Voluntary Protection Programs Participants' Association are joining OSHA to sponsor the effort, and more than 100 trade associations, industry and professional groups are supporting the Safe + Sound Week initiative.
OSHA says effective safety and health programs have three core elements:
- Management leadership that commits to establishing, maintaining and continually improving the program. Managers must also provide resources necessary to support the program.
- Workers who help identify solutions for improvements. A workforce engaged in safety and health programs results in higher productivity, increased job satisfaction and strong worker retention, which combine to increase revenues and lower turnover and recruitment costs.
- A systematic "find and fix" approach that calls upon employers and workers alike to examine their workplaces to identify and address hazards before an injury or illness occurs.
For more information about how to participate in Safe + Sound Week, click here.
