North American Occupational Safety and Health Week – May 7-13,2023
North American Occupational Safety and Health Week (NAOSH) is an annual event that aims to raise awareness about workplace safety and health. This year, NAOSH Week will be observed from May 7th to May 13th.
Workplace safety is a critical issue that affects employees in all industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were approximately 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers in 2019. These injuries not only impact the physical health of employees but can also have severe financial implications for both employees and employers.
The goal of NAOSH Week is to promote a culture of safety and health in the workplace. It provides an opportunity for employers, employees, and safety professionals to come together to discuss and promote workplace safety initiatives. The week also aims to recognize the efforts of those who work to improve safety in the workplace.
History
With the start of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, our world underwent a change from what might be called the "old world order" to the "new world order." The industrialization that took place during this time set the stage for the widespread production and manufacturing that are practiced today. Workers who frequently performed risky tasks made all of this feasible.
The abuse that employees endured during the Industrial Revolution became standard. Even in the modern world, working long hours in hazardous locations is still common. Three out of every 100 full-time employees experience an accident or disaster at work, according to statistics published by various labor organizations.
Instead of narrowing, the gap between blue-collar workers (laborers) and white-collar workers (management) has grown. This means that the working conditions for workers and the health insurance they receive are still below what is needed. Therefore, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) program was introduced to ensure that working conditions are improved and that workers are fairly compensated.
The US Department of Health and Human Services has made ensuring worker safety, and health, and reducing occupational dangers of all sorts one of its top priorities, in addition to the NIOSH program. Due to this initiative, tough restrictions have been implemented as well as an increase in awareness campaigns that partner organizations and groups have established to help with the awareness objective.
Therefore, North American Occupational Safety and Health Week is observed during the first full week of May in order to raise awareness and put policies in place that ensure employees' occupational safety and health.
Importance of NAOSH Week
Safe and healthy workers mean a strong, healthy workforce. A strong workforce means proper efficiency and effective business operations. By investing in the safety and health of employees, the organization is investing in its sustainable future.
As an employer, it's important to take workplace safety seriously. By implementing safety policies and procedures, providing safety training to employees, and conducting regular safety audits, employers can create a safe and healthy workplace environment for their employees.
When we are to work somewhere, we make sure there are no hazards or risks of getting injured. We need to think the same way for those working for us. In general, workplaces should be made safe and conducive to work. With the fear of getting hurt while working looming over workers’ heads, they won’t perform to their full potential.
As an employee, it's essential to take an active role in your own safety. Follow safety protocols, wear personal protective equipment, and report any safety hazards or concerns to your supervisor.
Observing NAOSH Week
During NAOSH Week, organizations across North America participate in a variety of activities, such as safety training sessions, safety demonstrations, and safety competitions. These activities help raise awareness about workplace safety and encourage employees to take an active role in their own safety and the safety of their colleagues.
Use this week to talk about occupational safety and health. Many people are not aware of their rights and continue working in unsafe workplaces just to make a living. Team up with the human resources department and organize an informative event. Teach about the benefits of ensuring the safety and health of the workers.
It may be impossible to eliminate hazards, but it’s not impossible to reduce them. Organize some fire drills or training for your colleagues so that they know what to do in stressful situations.
NAOSH Week is an important event that raises awareness about workplace safety and health. It's an opportunity for employers, employees, and safety professionals to come together and promote a culture of safety in the workplace. Let's work together to ensure a safe and healthy workplace environment.
Sources:
https://nationaltoday.com/north-american-occupational-safety-and-health-week/