This October, there are several key safety initiatives which are dedicated to promoting health and security for workers. Highlights for this month include National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, National Crime Prevention Month, and Protect Your Hearing Month. Keep reading for more details on these initiatives and how to get involved!
National Substance Abuse Prevention Month
National Substance Abuse Prevention Month is observed every October with the goal of raising awareness about the risks of substance abuse and promoting prevention efforts to combat it. National Substance Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to address the impact of substance use on workers, which is a significant issue in the construction industry. Substance abuse disproportionately affects workers in the construction industry, at rates nearly double the national average. This observance encourages employers to implement programs that support healthy, drug-free workplaces. At ESR, we like to use this month as an opportunity to encourage our clients to review or implement substance abuse policies, provide access to resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and offer education about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse.
Employers who are interested in supporting this initiative have a variety of options for getting involved, including participating in SAMHSA’s webinars and events this month, conducting training on substance abuse and mental health, and offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to workers who may be experiencing substance abuse or mental health crises.
National Crime Prevention Month
National Crime Prevention Month, observed every October, is a campaign dedicated to promoting public awareness and involvement in reducing crime and enhancing community safety. It was established by the National Crime Prevention Council to encourage individuals, families, and communities to take proactive steps to prevent crime. Each week of October is dedicated to a different theme; Week 1 is “Empowering Communities to Take A Bite Out Of Crime”, Week 2 is “Crime Prevention at Home”, Week 3 is “No Place for Hate”, and Week 4 is “Intellectual Property Theft”.
We like to use National Crime Prevention Month as an opportunity to encourage our clients to review site security measures and take proactive steps to protect workers and equipment. Employers who are interested in getting involved in this initiative can visit the National Crime Prevention Council website for information on programs, events, and corporate sponsorships. Additionally, the following tips can be used to promote crime prevention on the jobsite:
- Encourage workers to lock their vehicles, and store any valuables out of sight.
- Educate workers and supervisors on workplace violence and de-escalation techniques.
- Place No Trespassing signs to ensure only authorized workers are allowed on the jobsite.
- Inspect any perimeter fencing to ensure it is in good condition.
- Never leave keys in unattended vehicles or equipment. Store keys in a secure area.
- Store tools and materials in locked containers when not in use.
- Consider installing security cameras to monitor the site and record activity.
- Track equipment and keep accurate records of inventory.
Protect Your Hearing Month
Protect Your Hearing Month is an observance that occurs every October with the goal of raising awareness about the importance of preventing hearing loss caused by noise. Protect Your Hearing Month is a great time to review hearing protection policies and to educate workers on hearing loss prevention. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and can result from exposure to loud sounds in both work and recreational environments. For employers whose operations involve loud machinery, it’s crucial to understand the potential for hearing damage and the protective measures available, including using hearing protection or alternating work schedules to limit worker exposure. This month is a great reminder to monitor noise levels, provide hearing protection, and train workers on the importance of protecting their hearing.
Conclusion
October’s safety initiatives provide an excellent opportunity for employers to focus on overall worker health and security. These events can be used to bring attention to issues that many construction workers face, like substance abuse and hearing loss, and to promote measures to enhance jobsite security. Contact Evolution Safety Resources today if you would like assistance in getting involved in these events or need support in enhancing your safety programs. Our experts are ready to help you every step of the way.