Oregon Safety Break, May 10

May 10 is a day to come together and reflect on and talk about why workplace safety and health matter in our lives. It’s a day to put safety into action and to renew our commitment to preventing on-the-job injury, illness, and death. Employers across Oregon are invited to participate in Safety Break for Oregon on Wednesday, May 10, event aimed at raising awareness and promoting the value of safety and health in shielding workers from harm. Now in its 14th year, Safety Break encourages employers to bolster workplace safety and health with training, award recognition gatherings, or other creative activities. Oregon OSHA coordinates Safety Break, which is voluntary for employers. Businesses and other employers can decide what activities are most beneficial to their workforce. “This stand-down provides an opportunity for employers and their workers to pause and remember the high value they should place on safety and health while on the job,” said Michael Wood, Oregon OSHA administrator. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate past successes and to review the reasons behind those successes. It’s also a time to reflect on current challenges and to look to the future with a renewed commitment to identifying and eliminating hazards.” Safety Break encourages employees and managers to work together to identify safety and health concerns. The result of this cooperation can lead to fewer injuries and reduced workers’ compensation costs for employers. Companies that participate will be entered to win one of three $100 checks, to be used for a luncheon of their choice, when they sign up online by Friday, May 5: http://osha.oregon.gov/safetybreak/Pages/signup.aspx. The prizes will be given to participating companies as part of a random drawing. The Oregon SHARP Alliance is sponsoring the contest. For more information, ideas on how to host an event, or to download graphics, visit the Safety Break for Oregon website at http://osha.oregon.gov/safetybreak/Pages/index.aspx.