What is National Safety Month?

National Safety Month is a time to raise awareness and prevent injuries and illnesses in the workplace. It’s an annual campaign organized by the National Safety Council (NSC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating preventable deaths. The campaign aims to educate and inspire people to adopt safe behaviors at work, at home, and on the road. Each week of June focuses on a different safety topic: safety engagement, roadway safety, risk reduction and slips, trips and falls.

Why is Workplace Safety Important?

According to the NSC, every 7 seconds, a worker is injured on the job in the United States. That's more than 4.6 million injuries per year. Workplace injuries and illnesses can have serious consequences, such as physical pain, emotional distress, lost wages, medical bills, and reduced productivity. Workplace safety is not only a legal and ethical responsibility, but also a smart business decision. The benefits of a safe work environment are many. A focus on safety can boost employee morale, engagement, and loyalty, as well as reduce costs and risks.

How to Stay Safe at Work During National Safety Month?

Begin by following the safety policies and procedures of your employer and industry. These may include wearing protective equipment, following safety signs and labels, reporting hazards and incidents, and attending safety training and meetings. Next, be proactive and always be aware of your surroundings and your own well-being.

The following are some general tips to help you prevent common workplace hazards:

·       Avoid slips, trips, and falls by keeping your work area organized, using ladders and handrails properly, and wearing appropriate fall protection gear if necessary. Honeywell’s fall protection collection offers solutions to numerous industry hazards.

·       Prevent musculoskeletal disorders by adjusting your workstation, chair, and monitor to fit your body, taking frequent breaks and stretches, and lifting and carrying objects with proper technique.

·       Drive safely by buckling up, avoiding distractions, following traffic rules, and being alert.

·       Reduce the risk of fatigue and stress by getting enough sleep, eating staying hydrated, and managing your workload and emotions.

·       Support and encourage workers to be safe. Share safety tips and information, offer safety activities and events, and recognize and reward safe behaviors.

Conclusion

National Safety Month is a great opportunity to learn and practice safe behaviors at work. Visit the NSC website and download free materials, such as posters, fact sheets, quizzes, and videos, on each safety topic.

For the latest in quality personal protection equipment, visit https://automation.honeywell.com/us/en/home.

Stay safe and healthy!