World Day for Safety and Health at Work in the United States

Date: April 28

History: The World Day for Safety and Health at Work was established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2003 to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. It is an international campaign to raise awareness of how creating a safety and health culture can help reduce the number of work-related deaths and injuries.

Traditions: Although it is not a public holiday in the United States, various activities take place across the country to observe this day, including:

• Awareness Campaigns: Organizations run campaigns to increase awareness about workplace safety. They may share information through social media, posters, and workshops.
• Memorials: Some communities hold memorials for workers who have died on the job.
• Safety Training Sessions: Employers might organize training sessions or refresher courses for their employees on this day.
• Conferences and Webinars: Professional associations or governmental bodies may host conferences or webinars discussing new initiatives, laws, or technologies related to workplace safety.

What People Do:

• Employees may participate in training sessions, drills, or discussions about safety practices.
• Employers often review their company’s health and safety policies and make improvements where necessary.
• Health and Safety Professionals may use this day to highlight best practices and promote a culture of safety within organizations.

The United States also observes the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction around this time, which focuses specifically on reducing falls in the construction industry.