| The Time is Now | June is National Safety Month |
Every seven seconds, a worker is injured on the job, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). In 2018, there were 4,493 deaths in the U.S. that resulted from preventable occupational injuries, per NSC’s Injury Facts. Some of the most common workplace injuries are the result of: overexertion; contact with objects and equipment; and slips, trips and falls.
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment. To help achieve workplace safety, the NSC observes National Safety Month every June, providing information and resources to employers and employees in order to prevent workplace injuries and save lives. Due to the events unfolding in the world right now, NSC is focusing this year on different topics than have been seen in past years:
- Mental Health
- Ergonomics
- Building a Safety Culture
- Driving
Free resources on these topics can be accessed on the NSC website and downloaded and shared. Resources include articles, tip sheets, a poster, social media graphics, a SafeAtWork pledge, and more. Among the resources, workers may be interested in the information provided on:
- Tips to remain ‘sane and safe’ during social distancing
- Work ergonomically anywhere
- Home office ergonomic tips
- What are your workplace driving risks?
- Safe driving toolkit
- Safety leadership: Seven practices of great safety leaders
- Crisis management tips
- Eliminating workplace hazards through training
In addition to participating in safety events, workers can help avoid injuries by taking the following actions in their workplace:
- Use the proper equipment and PPE for the job.
- Check that equipment and tools are in good condition prior to use.
- Keep a clean, organized workspace.
- Use proper lifting techniques.
- Follow your workplace safety rules.
- Report injuries and unsafe conditions to management.
- Ensure you are properly trained.
- Avoid shortcuts.
- Think before you act.
- Have a plan in case of injury or emergency.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. By bringing workplace safety into focus, most workplace injuries can be prevented.
