It’s a day to pause and reflect on why workplace safety and health matter. It’s a day to turn that reflection into sustained action to prevent on-the-job injury, illness, and death. Employers across Oregon are invited to participate in Safety Break for Oregon, the Wednesday, May 11, event aimed at raising awareness and promoting the value of safety and health in shielding workers from harm. Now in its 13th 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 can decide what activities are most beneficial to their workforce. “Safety Break is an opportunity for employers to remind their workers, and themselves, about the importance they attach to safety in the workplace,” said Michael Wood, Oregon OSHA administrator. “A safety stand-down such as this provides an opportunity to celebrate past successes, to reflect about the remaining challenges, and to share a renewed commitment for the future.” 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. For more information, ideas on how to host an event, or to download graphics, visit the Safety Break for Oregon website at http://www.orosha.org/subjects/safetybreak.html.
