national-safety-month

June Is National Safety Month: What You Need to Know

In The Community

June is National Safety Month! Organized every June by the National Safety Council (NSC), National Safety Month (NSM) is a campaign that seeks to bring awareness to preventing injuries and fatalities at work, on the road, and at home. 

It’s a month where the spotlight shines on safety and prevention. There are many things you can do to stay safe this month. This blog will discuss the topics in focus for this year’s National Safety Month. First, let’s learn how National Safety Month came to be. 

PuroClean takes safety seriously all year long. We can’t stress how important it is for us that our employees work as safely as possible, following OSHA regulations, given that they often work under challenging conditions. We offer all our franchise owners training and resources on how to properly perform restoration jobs while minimizing the risk of injuries.

Why Does National Safety Month Exist?

NSM was created in response to an alarming increase in workplace fatalities. In 1970, for example, 14,000 workers were killed on the job, a record number at the time. 

The NSC established National Safety Month in 1996 to promote awareness about safety and prevent further unnecessary injuries and death. The NSC is a nonprofit organization that works to eliminate preventable deaths in our homes, communities, and workplaces. 

Each year, the NSC picks a different theme for NSM. Every campaign aims to empower individuals and organizations to take action and adhere to standardized safety rules at the workplace, home, and community.

National Safety Month’s Weekly Themes

NSM has had many different themes over the years. Past themes include keeping each other safe, hazard recognition, and home emergency preparedness. 2022’s NSM has no general theme, but there will be a featured topic every week throughout June. 

Week 1: Musculoskeletal Disorders(MSDs)

back pain concept
MSDs are preventable, but you need to adhere to several healthy habits. 

MSDs are injuries and illnesses that strike muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and the spinal cord. They can result from repetitive motions, vibrations, awkward postures, and forceful exertions. MSDs are a leading cause of illness and injury in the workplace. 

There are many things you can do to prevent MSDs from happening. Some tips include:

  • Taking breaks often to move and stretch
  • Adjusting your workstation to fit your body properly
  • Use proper lifting techniques
  • Staying hydrated 

During MSD week, businesses may sign the MSD Pledge, a global commitment by companies in many sectors to propose to improve workplace safety and minimize the chance of musculoskeletal problems. 

Employers may participate in the expanding movement dedicated to lowering MSD risks and producing safer work environments, increasing workers’ physical and psychological health, and saving money on worker’s compensation, disability, and absenteeism. 

Upon signing the pledge, a company or organization will be invited to attend an orientation and exclusive MSD member briefings. The company or organization will receive a monthly newsletter with insights on best practices, case studies, and early glimpses of future workplace resources. 

Week 2: Workplace Impairment

The National Safety Council defines impairment as “any condition that decreases a person’s ability to perform tasks safely and effectively.” This can include physical, mental, and emotional impairments. 

Some common causes of workplace impairment are:

  • Use of alcohol or drugs
  • Lack of sleep
  • Stress
  • Fatigue 

To ensure optimal performance on the job, you might want to consider incorporating the following daily habits:

  • Getting enough sleep before your shift
  • Eating healthy foods to maintain energy levels
  • Taking breaks often to reduce stress levels
  • Abstaining from drug or alcohol use before your shift 

If you are impaired while at work, the best thing to do is to tell your supervisor. He or she will be able to help you decide if it is safe for you to stay at work or if you need to go home. 

Week 3: Injury Prevention

workplace safety concept
NSC makes great efforts to help businesses and organizations reduce injuries in the workplace. 

Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Each year, millions of people are injured at work, at home, and while playing sports or engaging in other activities. There’s also the risk of unintentional injury-related death. 

The following critical injury prevention efforts can ensure your safety is a priority:

  • Use safety equipment when participating in activities
  • Wear proper shoes to avoid slips, trips, and falls
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Follow the rules and regulations for your specific job or activity 

If you have been injured, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. After visiting a medical professional, you may need to follow up with further treatments, such as physical therapy. Taking time off from work to recover might be necessary as well. 

Week 4: Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Slips, trips, and falls are a significant risk as they can cause workplace injuries anywhere, at any time. Most often, however, these are preventable injuries. To avoid slips, trips, and falls, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Wear proper shoes with good traction
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Wipe up spills immediately
  • Keep floors clean and free of clutter
  • Use caution when walking on wet or icy surfaces 

You may want to see a physician for further care if you’ve been injured in a slip, trip, or fall. If necessary, a medical professional can offer a diagnosis and advise other treatments, such as physical therapy. You may also need to take time off from work to recover.

How You Can Participate

This month is a great time to learn how to prevent injuries and stay safe while at home, work, or enjoying activities. Everyone is encouraged to get involved. 

NSC provides a variety of free resources, such as posters, tip sheets, and quizzes to promote safety awareness. You can find tips to prevent various dangers and what to do if you encounter them on their website

Additionally, you can use the free NSC Safety Checkup tool to determine your risks and learn how to prevent them. You can also explore additional resources on the website. 

Your company or organization may already have planned a safety campaign for NSM. If so, be sure to participate and take advantage of the available occupational safety resources, such as key safety technologies. You may even be able to earn prizes or rewards for your participation.

For Emergency Restoration Services, Call PuroClean Today

National Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to take some simple steps to prevent injuries. These safety tips can ensure peace of mind for you and others in your workspace, home, and other areas. 

For all other commercial and residential matters, PuroClean is here to assist you. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you recover from water, fire, mold, and biohazard damage.  

Our certified professionals will work quickly to restore your property and minimize the disruption to your life. Call us today at (800) 775-7876. National Safety Month is the perfect time to put PuroClean on your speed dial!

Last edited on 16th of June 2022