What is National Safety Month?
The National Safety Council (NSC) leads the observance of National Safety Month each June to emphasize the importance of safety in all aspects of life, including the workplace, home, and on the road. This annual event, now in its 28th year, is dedicated to raising awareness about the leading causes of preventable injury and death and promoting effective safety practices. The NSC designates each week of June to focus on a specific safety theme, providing valuable resources and tips to help organizations and individuals enhance their safety measures.
Week 1: Safety Engagement
Safety engagement is the focus of the first week of National Safety Month. This theme underscores the importance of involving all employees in the safety process and creating a culture where safety is a shared responsibility. Effective safety engagement can significantly reduce workplace accidents and injuries by fostering a proactive approach to safety.
Week 2: Roadway Safety
The second week of National Safety Month focuses on roadway safety, highlighting the importance of safe driving practices to prevent accidents and save lives. Roadway safety is not only critical for employees who drive as part of their job but also for those commuting to and from work.
Week 3: Risk Reduction
Risk reduction is the theme for the third week of National Safety Month, focusing on identifying and mitigating potential hazards in the workplace. Proactive risk management is essential for creating a safe work environment and preventing accidents before they occur.
Week 4: Slips, Trips, and Falls
The final week of National Safety Month addresses the prevention of slips, trips, and falls, which are among the most common causes of workplace injuries. These incidents can occur in any work environment, from offices to construction sites, and can result in serious injuries.
NASP “Hero Moment” Contest
To celebrate National Safety Month, the National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) is hosting a contest to recognize and highlight the extraordinary efforts of safety professionals. The contest invites participants to submit their most inspiring “Hero Moment” in workplace safety, showcasing times when they made a significant impact on safety in their workplace.
The contest details are as follows:
- Submission: Participants can submit their stories of how they implemented a life-saving protocol, prevented a major accident, or performed a heroic act that ensured everyone’s well-being. Submissions can be made through the NASP website.
- Prize: The winner of the contest will receive free enrollment in NASP’s Certified Safety Manager online course and an Igloo 70 Qt Trailmate Journey Cooler.
- Deadline: All entries must be submitted by June 30, 2024. The winning entry will also participate in an online video interview conducted via Zoom.
NASP aims to inspire others to prioritize safety in the workplace and recognize the vital role that safety professionals play in protecting their colleagues and creating a safe work environment.
National Safety Month is an invaluable opportunity for organizations and individuals to prioritize safety and implement effective measures to reduce preventable injuries and deaths. By focusing on safety engagement, roadway safety, risk reduction, and preventing slips, trips, and falls, we can create safer environments for everyone. The NASP “Hero Moment” contest further emphasizes the importance of safety by celebrating those who go above and beyond to protect their colleagues. Let’s use this month to reinforce our commitment to safety and work together to make every environment a safe place to live and work.
