The Occupational Safety and Health Administration plans to join businesses nationwide, recognizing the successes of workplace safety and health programs during the Labor Department’s ‘Safe + Sound Week,’ Aug. 7-13, 2023.

The annual event involves thousands of worksites promoting the benefits of safety and health programs, including management leadership, worker participation, and a systematic approach to finding and fixing hazards. 

“We want businesses to have a system, not just good intentions, and make safety a core value for every worker in every workplace,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker. “During this week and throughout the year, we urge every employer to commit to implementing a program that drives continuous improvement in safety and health.”

This year’s program will focus on mental health, well-being and resources to help alleviate workplace stress — and support mental health. 

Businesses incorporating safety and health programs can help prevent injuries and illnesses, reduce workers’ compensation costs and improve productivity.

Mental health, workplace stress and suicide have very real work-related implications, OSHA said in a news release announcing the weeklong event, especially in the construction industry. The Labor Department said the suicide rate in the construction trades is 3.5 times higher than that of the general population.

Sign up to participate in Safe + Sound Week. 

Organizations of any size or industry looking to show their commitment to safety can participate. Last year, more than 3,300 businesses helped raise awareness about workers’ safety and health.

For more information, visit osha.gov/safeandsound.