NAOSH Week occurs every year during the first full week of May and is aimed at raising awareness about occupational safety, health and the environment and safety, health and engineering  professions.  The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) joined with the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE) and partners in Mexico to promote awareness in North America during NAOSH Week. This is one tool the almost 100-year-old ASSE and its 32,000 SH&E members use throughout the year to promote occupational safety, aimed at preventing injuries and illnesses. Several organizations representing thousands of businesses have partnered with ASSE and CSSE to support NAOSH Week, including U.S. federal agencies such as the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

NAOSH Week began in 1997.  Canada originally began observing Occupational Safety and Health Week in 1986.  During the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) talks in 1997, the representative from Canada suggested that Mexico and the United States become involved in a similar endeavor.  Hence, this continent-wide event got its start.

Monday, May 3rd, NAOSH week was launched in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, in Canada, and in Washington D.C.  Businesses are encouraged to participate in all types of contests to promote safety and wellness.  Some companies even have personal protective equipment “fashion shows!”  Poster contests involving employees’ children, and other fun events get everyone involved.  Persons who are interested in becoming health or safety professionals are able to find out more about becoming involved in those occupations.  There are all types of affairs that involve communities and businesses.

NAOSH Week Logo

Three hands forming an equilateral triangle portrays the three participating nations – Canada, the United States and Mexico – and symbolizes joint venture, cooperation and the commitment to the common goals shared by all occupational health and safety partners. The three sides stand for partnership of the three countries in this joint occupational health and safety venture, as well as all tripartite partnerships between business, labor and governments. The connected hands illustrate assistance and cooperation on many levels – from interpersonal relationships in the workplace to international exchange.

Let’s get behind this annual observance and continue to work hard to prevent injuries all year long.

Source: NAOSH.org
Canadian Society of Safety Engineers