2025 - EHS School

How to get EHS certification?

Ensuring workplace safety and environmental protection has become a top priority across industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workplace injuries in the U.S. have declined by over 10% in the last decade, thanks to stronger safety regulations and increased awareness. However, workplace accidents and environmental hazards still pose significant risks, making Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) certification more important than ever. EHS certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s or organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards of workplace safety, employee health, and environmental compliance. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and oil and gas require EHS-certified professionals to minimize risks, reduce workplace incidents, and comply with national and international safety regulations. For professionals, obtaining an EHS certification can be a career-defining move. It not only enhances job opportunities but also provides a deeper understanding of workplace hazard management, emergency response planning, and regulatory compliance. For organizations, employing EHS-certified personnel helps create a safer work environment, improves operational efficiency, and ensures adherence to legal requirements. A crucial aspect of EHS certification is its alignment with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards. OSHA plays a key role in workplace safety, and many EHS training programs incorporate OSHA guidelines. Certifications such as OSHA 10-Hour and OSHA 30-Hour are widely recognized in industries where workplace hazards are a concern. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining an EHS certification, including selecting the right program, completing the necessary training, gaining work experience, and passing the certification exam. Whether you are an aspiring safety professional or a business owner aiming for compliance, understanding the certification process can help you take the right steps toward workplace safety and environmental responsibility. Understanding EHS Certification EHS certification demonstrates an individual’s or organization’s commitment to maintaining workplace safety, environmental compliance, and employee health. These certifications are designed to ensure adherence to safety protocols, hazard management, and environmental regulations. Employers prefer certified professionals because they help mitigate risks, reduce workplace accidents, and enhance operational efficiency. EHS certification is available at different levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. These certifications cover key topics such as workplace hazard identification, emergency preparedness, occupational health standards, and regulatory compliance. Some certifications focus more on environmental management, while others emphasize occupational safety. Choosing the right certification depends on your career goals and industry requirements. The process of obtaining EHS certification involves completing specific training programs, passing exams, and fulfilling experience requirements. Various organizations offer these certifications, each catering to different aspects of EHS compliance. Some well-recognized bodies include the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), the National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP), and OSHA-approved training providers. The Role of OSHA in EHS Certification The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) plays a crucial role in the EHS framework. Established in 1970, OSHA is responsible for enforcing workplace safety standards across the United States. Many EHS training programs incorporate OSHA regulations, making OSHA courses an essential component of EHS certification. OSHA-approved courses cover topics such as hazard communication, fire safety, fall protection, and personal protective equipment. These courses aim to reduce workplace hazards and improve overall safety awareness. Some commonly pursued OSHA certifications include: OSHA 10-Hour Certification OSHA 30-Hour Certification Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Employers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare often require OSHA certification as a prerequisite for hiring. This ensures that employees are well-trained in workplace safety measures, reducing risks and liabilities for businesses. Steps to Obtain an EHS Certification 1. Identify the Right Certification There are multiple EHS certifications available, depending on your industry and career goals. Some of the most recognized certifications include: Certified Safety Professional (CSP) Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) Certified Environmental Health and Safety Professional (CEHSP) OSHA Safety Certifications National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) EHS Certificate. 2. Enroll in a Training Program Once you have chosen the appropriate certification, you need to complete the required training. Many institutions offer EHS training programs, including online courses, in-person classes, and hybrid formats such as: OSHA Academy National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) Professional Institutes for Quality and Compliance (PIQC) Environmental Compliance Training Centers 3. Gain Work Experience Most EHS certifications require a certain level of work experience in safety and environmental management. For example, CSP certification requires at least four years of professional safety experience. Working in roles such as safety officer, environmental health specialist, or compliance manager can help fulfill this requirement. 4. Pass the Certification Exam After completing training and meeting experience requirements, candidates must pass an exam to obtain certification. These exams assess knowledge in areas like hazard identification, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and emergency response. 5. Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education EHS certifications often require renewal through continuing education credits. Professionals must stay updated with new regulations, safety protocols, and industry best practices by attending workshops, webinars, and refresher courses. Benefits of EHS Certification Obtaining an EHS certification offers numerous benefits: Career Advancement: EHS-certified professionals are in high demand across industries like construction, oil and gas, healthcare, and manufacturing. Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals often earn higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and expertise. Regulatory Compliance: Businesses benefit by ensuring compliance with OSHA and environmental laws, reducing the risk of penalties and legal issues. Improved Workplace Safety: A certified EHS professional helps create a safer work environment, reducing accidents and enhancing productivity. Global Recognition: Many EHS certifications are recognized internationally, opening doors to career opportunities worldwide. EHS certification is a valuable credential that enhances safety standards, ensures regulatory compliance, and boosts career prospects. Whether you are an individual looking to specialize in workplace safety or an organization aiming for compliance, obtaining an EHS certification is a crucial step. By choosing the right certification, completing the necessary training, gaining experience, and passing the required exams, you can establish yourself as a safety expert in your industry. Investing in EHS certification not only benefits professionals but also contributes to a safer and healthier work environment for everyone.

By EHS School March 1, 2025

What Is OSHA10 Certification Good For?

In many industries, it’s of core importance to have a safe and secure working environment. It’s important to keep the health and safety of employees and guide them about all possible hazards. To make sure companies and organizations follow the needful laws and regulations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) introduced the 10-hour certification course. The course outlines the policies to guide and train employees, along with mandatory steps that organizations should take to build a safe working environment. Having industry-specific content, the certification gives ample knowledge and information to the employees about possible hazards and ways to overcome them. What is OSHA 10 Certification? OSHA 10 certification is essential for providing workers with fundamental knowledge of occupational hazards and risk prevention strategies. Upon successfully completing the course, each candidate is awarded an official certificate. A final assessment evaluates their course knowledge and issues the certification along with the DOL card. The course is designed to ensure that workers understand their rights, employer responsibilities, and key safety procedures to minimize workplace injuries. Purpose of OSHA 10 Certification The primary goal of this certification is to make it easier for new employees and beginners to understand the regulations associated with the industry: Educate workers on common safety risks in their industry. Teach employees how to prevent accidents and injuries through proactive safety measures. Help workers understand their legal rights and employer obligations Reduce workplace incidents that help lower workers’ compensation claims and financial losses for employers. Promote a culture of safety for a more productive and secure work environment. Who Needs OSHA 10 Certification? Based on different industries, this entry-level training program – OSHA 10 Certification is ideal for the following professionals: Construction: In this industry, entry-level laborers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and roofers Manufacturing: Workers operate heavy machinery or handle hazardous materials Warehousing & Logistics: Employees involved in lifting, loading, and operating forklifts Healthcare: Professionals who are involved in facility maintenance and hazardous material handling may require it Retail & Hospitality: Professionals who are involved in lifting, stocking, and customer interaction Different Types of 10-Hour OSHA Certifications OSHA offers various types of OSHA 10-hour training courses, each tailored to a specific industry. These programs address the individual hazards involved in industries and ways to handle and overcome them. Here are the three main types of OSHA 10-hour certifications: OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry The course specifically covers hazards and policies associated with the construction industry. It’s ideal for general laborers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers, and site supervisors. The important course topics covered in this course include: Fall Protection: This covers the guide to preventing falls from heights, including the proper use of harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets. Scaffolding Safety: Proper setup, inspection, and use of scaffolding to prevent collapses or falls. Heavy Equipment Safety: This section covers the guidelines for operating cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and other machinery to prevent accidents. Excavation & Trenching Hazards: It helps identify risks related to trench collapses and ensures safe excavation practices. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Guides about the importance of hard hats, safety boots, gloves, and other protective gear. Hazard Communication: Helps recognize hazardous materials and handle them safely on a construction site. Electrical Safety: Helps prevent electrical hazards when working around power lines, generators, and temporary electrical setups. OSHA 10-Hour General Industry This course type covers the general industry. It’s suitable for manufacturing, healthcare, warehousing, distribution centers, logistics, and retail. The course topics cover the basic hazards and policies associated with companies, office buildings, and healthcare organizations. Slips, Trips, and Falls: Guides about wet floors, cluttered work areas, or uneven surfaces. Machine Guarding: This covers safety measures to operate machines and equipment Electrical Safety: Helps identify and mitigate electrical hazards risks Ergonomics & Workplace Safety: Guides about minimizing strain and injuries What is OSHA 10 Certification Good for? OSHA 10-hour certification is bundled with benefits. From offering better job opportunities to enhancing the credibility of the firm and its employees, there are many reasons that emphasize the need to have this certification. Many employers actively seek candidates with OSHA 10 certification because it ensures they have basic safety knowledge before stepping onto a job site. Moreover, companies often make it mandatory to have the DOL card and OSHA certification to fulfill the worker’s eligibility. Entry-level workers who have OSHA 10 training are often viewed as proactive and responsible, which may lead to better job prospects and potential promotions. On the other hand, when it comes to workplace safety, the OSHA certification course helps organizations work on their safety policies. It ensures that the worksite is safe and equipped with all necessary PPE. A strong safety culture can also improve morale among workers, as they feel more confident and secure knowing that their workplace follows proper safety protocols. Workers with OSHA 10 certification are better equipped to handle dangerous situations, such as falls, electrical hazards, and exposure to harmful substances. Hence, there are ample benefits one can get at a minimal cost. Earn Your OSHA Certification Now Enroll in an OSHA-approved 10-hour training course and secure your future in a safer work environment.

By EHS School February 17, 2025

Failed an OSHA Inspection? A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a fine from the OSHA is one of the worst experiences any business entity will never wish to encounter. Such fines occur for instance as a shocker to employers regarding workplace safety, they are however not conclusive. It opens up questions on how one can handle such a situation to reduce the effects it has on one’s operations and image. Below is the positive approach to following if you are facing this kind of challenge. Understand the Violation The first step is to sit down and read the citation carefully several times. OSHA violations are categorized into different types, including: Serious: Signals danger for serious or fatal injury. Willful: Might be construed as intentional negligence by business organizations to safety regulations. Repeated: Used if a business was penalized for a similar offense previously in the past. Other-than-Serious: Means problems that are not likely to endanger the company’s existence should be addressed in one way or another. This is important because the penalty you attract and your response time depends on the severity of your violation. Respond Within the Timeframe The OSHA usually grants businesses a 15 working days to respond to a citation. During this period, you can: Accept the Citation: It is recommended that the fine be paid and the problem resolved by such a date. Request an Informal Conference: Depending on the type of citation, schedule a meeting with OSHA to discuss your chances of being allowed to pay a lower penalty. Contest the Citation: If you feel that such citation does not call for citation and is a wrongful citation, then you can contest the OSHA citation. If a response is not provided within the time granted, the respondent may suffer other consequences, including possible legal consequences. Request an Informal Conference OSHA informal conference provides a chance to discuss penalties, give explanations about the violations, and plan for corrections. This meeting can also assist in the development of a positive relationship with OSHA since this might go a long way to cover for you in future inspections. Prepare thoroughly for this meeting by: Checking every bit of paper containing the citation. Collecting materials that would help deny the charges or better explain the supposed violations. Seeking help from the lawyer or safety officers in case of legal matters. Conduct an Internal Investigation Always investigate internally to discover what led to the decision to avoid making the same mistakes. This includes: Employees’ ongoing safety and health risks assessment. Oral questionnaires and communication with the employers and subordinates. Looking for areas of inadequate preparation, which include equipment and procedures. This investigation will assist you in preparing a corrective action plan, showing your strict adherence to the set laws. Develop and Implement a Corrective Action Plan OSHA citations always carry an obligation to ensure safety at a given point in the business. Create a corrective action plan that: Addresses the cited hazards. Some of the changes as per this act include safety training programs. It guarantees compliance with OSHA laws from the future forward as a policy. To ensure compliance, you should document corrective measures. This is also important when another inspection occurs in the future. Consult Legal and Safety Experts OSHA citations can be a little tricky to handle, but if you have decided to fight the violation, then you will need to know the following. In other cases, you may need to consult with legal advice or a safety consultant who understands the OSHA laws. These professionals can: Make it easier for you to grasp the finer details of your matter. Proceed to appear for you in informal conferences or court. Support the processes of bringing more permanent safety changes. Contest the Citation If Necessary If you think that the citation was unnecessary, then it is indeed possible to fight against it. A Notice of Contest must be filed and a case for an appeal before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC). When contesting, ensure that: You have some really strong arguments on your side. They require that you should provide information on all corrective actions for the citation for a given time in the past. You’re ready for a process that can take some time. Pay the Fine If Applicable If contesting the citation is unsuccessful, pay the fine promptly to avoid additional penalties. Many businesses opt to negotiate for reduced penalties during the informal conference stage. Strengthen Your Safety Program An OSHA citation highlights areas where your safety program may be lacking. Use this as an opportunity to: Conduct regular safety audits. Update training materials and schedules. Foster a culture of safety within your organization. Proactively addressing safety issues can prevent future citations and create a healthier work environment. Communicate with Employees Transparency with your employees is crucial during this process. Inform them about: The nature of the violation. Steps are being taken to address the issue. Changes to safety protocols and procedures. Engaging employees in safety initiatives can boost morale and ensure better compliance with updated standards. Maintain Documentation Proper documentation is critical for proving compliance during follow-up inspections. Keep detailed records of: All communications with OSHA. Corrective actions and safety improvements. Employee training sessions and attendance. This documentation serves as evidence of your commitment to workplace safety. Prepare for Future Inspections An OSHA citation often leads to increased scrutiny in the future. To prepare: Schedule regular safety inspections. Stay updated on OSHA regulations. Encourage employees to report potential hazards promptly. A proactive approach can reduce the risk of future violations and foster a safer workplace. Conclusion Receiving an OSHA fine is undoubtedly stressful, but it can also be a valuable learning experience. By taking swift and decisive action, you can resolve the issue, enhance workplace safety, and prevent similar problems. Remember, the goal is not just to comply with OSHA standards but to create an environment where safety is a top priority for everyone.

By EHS School February 4, 2025

Monthly Safety Topics for 2025

Safety in the workplace is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the health and well-being of all employees. To create a proactive safety culture, it’s beneficial to focus on specific safety topics each month. Below is a suggested monthly safety training schedule for 2025, highlighting key areas that can help mitigate common hazards and improve overall safety awareness. January – Fall Protection In January, it’s essential to focus on fall protection, especially in industries where workers are at risk of falling from heights, such as construction, warehousing, or maintenance. Fall protection includes the use of safety harnesses, guardrails, safety nets, and proper training to prevent accidents. Employees should be aware of the different types of fall protection systems and when they should be used, as well as the importance of regular inspections to ensure that all equipment is in good condition. February – Scaffolding Safety February should emphasize scaffolding safety. Scaffolds are often used in construction and maintenance, but if improperly assembled or maintained, they can be dangerous. Workers should be trained on how to inspect scaffolds for structural integrity, load capacity, and stability. Proper installation and secure access to scaffolding are vital to preventing falls and injuries. Scaffolding safety training also covers the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, fall protection, and non-slip footwear. March – Hazardous Materials Handling March is a great time to address hazardous materials handling. Many industries deal with chemicals and other hazardous substances, and improper handling can lead to serious accidents, such as chemical burns, poisoning, or environmental damage. Employees should be trained on how to safely store, label, and dispose of hazardous materials. They should also understand the importance of using the proper PPE, including gloves, respirators, and protective clothing, to minimize exposure to harmful substances. April – Electrical Safety April’s focus should be on electrical safety. Electrical hazards can cause fatal accidents if proper precautions are not taken. Employees working with electrical systems need to understand how to identify potential electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring, faulty equipment, or overloaded circuits. Training should also cover safe work practices, including lockout/tagout procedures, and the use of insulated tools and equipment to prevent electrical shock or fires. May – Workplace Ergonomics In May, workplace ergonomics should be the focus. Poor ergonomics can lead to repetitive strain injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, and other health problems. Training should address proper lifting techniques, workstation setup, and the importance of regular breaks to reduce the risk of injuries from prolonged sitting or repetitive movements. Employees should be encouraged to adjust their workstations to promote proper posture and reduce the strain on their bodies. June – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) June is an ideal time to highlight the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE is essential in protecting workers from various hazards, including physical, chemical, and biological risks. The training should cover the types of PPE necessary for different tasks, including gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, respiratory equipment, and safety footwear. It is also important to educate employees on how to properly use, maintain, and store their PPE to ensure it remains effective. July – Heat Stress Prevention As temperatures rise in July, heat stress prevention becomes critical. Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly. Training should include recognizing the symptoms of heat stress, such as dizziness, nausea, and confusion, and knowing how to respond. Workers should be encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas. Employers should also ensure that adequate cooling systems are in place in the workplace. August – Fire Safety Fire safety is a key focus in August. Fires can break out in almost any workplace, so it’s vital to train employees on fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and the proper use of fire extinguishers. Employees should know the different classes of fires (e.g., electrical, chemical) and how to respond to each. Regular fire drills should be conducted to ensure everyone knows the proper escape routes and assembly points. It’s also important to maintain fire alarms and extinguishers, ensuring they are in working order at all times. September – Safe Material Handling Material handling is the focus for September. Improper lifting, carrying, or moving of materials can lead to back injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, and accidents. Training should teach employees safe lifting techniques, the use of mechanical aids like forklifts or dollies, and how to properly store and organize materials to reduce the risk of injury. Workers should also be educated on the importance of wearing appropriate PPE, such as steel-toed boots or gloves, when handling heavy or sharp objects. October – Confined Space Safety In October, the focus should be on confined space safety. Working in confined spaces can pose serious risks, including asphyxiation, chemical exposure, and physical injury. Workers should be trained on the hazards associated with confined spaces, such as inadequate ventilation and limited escape routes. Proper entry and exit procedures, air monitoring, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators should be covered. A confined space rescue plan should also be in place in case of an emergency. November – Vehicle Safety November’s focus should be on vehicle safety. Whether driving company vehicles, forklifts, or heavy machinery, vehicle-related accidents are a leading cause of workplace injuries. Training should cover defensive driving techniques, the importance of pre-trip inspections, and the use of seat belts and other safety features. Workers should also be reminded of the need to follow traffic laws and avoid distractions while driving, particularly when operating in busy work zones. December – Winter Weather Safety December should focus on winter weather safety. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can create hazardous conditions both outside and inside the workplace. Workers should be trained on how to stay warm and prevent frostbite or hypothermia. Employers should also ensure that walkways and parking lots are kept clear of ice and snow to prevent slips and falls. Training should also cover

By EHS School January 27, 2025

Discounted Online Safety Programs

EHS School is excited to expand its course catalog with 1,000 new short courses covering topics like falling hazards, fire safety, first aid, conflict management, leadership, and motivation. This initiative reinforces EHS School’s commitment to offering specialized, accessible training that equips learners with essential skills for both personal and professional success. By making safety training more relevant, affordable, and engaging, the school ensures trainees can focus on the areas most important to them, from basic first aid to enhancing workplace safety protocols. Available at Discounted Prices EHS School is offering new short courses at discounted prices to make safety education more affordable. Originally priced between $40 and $50, each course is now available for just $23. Trainees can also purchase five courses for only $100. This initiative reflects EHS School’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education. Each course includes a certificate of completion, helping participants showcase their skills to potential employers or for personal growth. These certificates highlight a commitment to safety, making them valuable additions to resumes and professional profiles. What Makes These Courses Unique? The short courses at EHS School are designed to be concise yet comprehensive. They focus on specific topics, ensuring that trainees get actionable insights and practical skills without unnecessary fluff. The courses are developed by experienced professionals and educators who understand the challenges and needs of modern workplaces. Moreover, the courses are accessible online, allowing trainees to learn at their own pace. Whether you prefer to complete a course in one sitting or spread it out over several days, the flexibility ensures that even the busiest professionals can participate. Each module is packed with interactive content, quizzes, and real-world scenarios to enhance understanding and retention. Who Can Benefit from This Opportunity? The discounted short courses are an excellent opportunity for various groups, including: Trainees: Individuals looking to expand their safety knowledge and develop practical skills. Whether you’re new to safety training or have some experience, these courses provide valuable information to help you stay safe and confident in various environments. Job Seekers: Those aiming to enhance their resumes with relevant certifications that demonstrate expertise in safety practices. Adding these certifications can make you stand out in a competitive job market, especially in industries where safety knowledge is highly valued. Safety Professionals: Industry experts seeking to advance their careers by staying updated on specialized topics and earning additional credentials. Continuous learning is key to career growth, and these courses offer a convenient way to stay ahead. These courses are also suitable for business owners, team leaders, and HR professionals who want to ensure that their teams are equipped with the latest safety knowledge. By encouraging employees to take these courses, organizations can foster a culture of safety and reduce workplace incidents. Other Courses Available at EHS School In addition to these short courses, EHS School also offers comprehensive OSHA 10-hour and 30-hour courses. These programs are available in multiple versions tailored to specific needs, including: Spanish-Language Courses: Providing accessibility for Spanish-speaking learners. These courses ensure that language barriers do not prevent anyone from gaining vital safety knowledge. New York-Specific Courses: Meeting state-specific regulations for construction and general industry. New York has unique safety requirements, and these courses are designed to address them thoroughly. Construction and General Industry Versions: Addressing the unique safety challenges in these fields. Whether you work in construction or general industry, these OSHA courses provide in-depth training on essential safety practices. The OSHA courses are ideal for employers and employees seeking to ensure compliance with workplace safety standards. They provide a deeper understanding of OSHA regulations and practical tips for maintaining safe work environments. How to Choose the Right Course With so many options available, selecting the right course might seem overwhelming. To simplify the process, EHS School offers detailed course descriptions and guidance to help you identify the best fit for your goals. Whether you’re interested in leadership, first aid, or specialized industry training, you can find a course that aligns with your needs. Additionally, EHS School’s customer support team is available to answer questions and provide recommendations. By discussing your objectives and interests, they can help you make an informed decision. Why Safety Training Matters Investing in safety training is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about protecting lives and fostering a positive workplace culture. Proper training can prevent accidents, reduce downtime, and enhance productivity. It also demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, which can boost morale and loyalty. In today’s fast-paced world, staying informed about safety practices is more important than ever. As new hazards emerge and regulations evolve, continuous learning ensures that you are prepared to face challenges effectively. EHS School’s courses provide the tools and knowledge needed to navigate these complexities confidently. Conclusion With the launch of these discounted short courses, EHS School continues to demonstrate its commitment to making quality safety education accessible to everyone. Whether you are looking to upgrade your skills, enhance your resume, or gain specialized knowledge, there’s never been a better time to invest in your professional growth. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Enroll today and take the first step toward advancing your career and fostering a safer work environment. Visit EHS School’s website or contact us directly for more information and to sign up for our courses. Together, let’s create safer workplaces and communities through education and awareness.

By EHS School January 20, 2025

What Do EHS Statistics Tell Us About Workplace Safety?

Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) plays a vital role in safeguarding employees and promoting environmental responsibility. By analyzing accurate EHS data, organizations can identify risks, enhance regulatory compliance, and implement effective safety strategies. These insights foster proactive safety measures, improve workplace culture, and drive continuous improvements, enhancing overall operational efficiency and sustainability. Nonfatal Workplace Incidents Statistics In 2022, private industry employers in the United States reported 2.8 million cases of nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. This represents a 7.5% increase from the previous year, indicating a rise in workplace incidents. Of these, 2.3 million were injuries, reflecting a 4.5% increase, while illnesses saw a significant jump of 26.1%. On a global scale, nearly 400 million workers were reported to have experienced nonfatal work injuries in 2019. These statistics underscore the critical need for organizations to continuously monitor and address safety risks to prevent such incidents. Effective use of EHS data can help identify trends and implement targeted safety measures to reduce these occurrences. Analysis of Nonfatal Incidents In 2022, workplace respiratory illnesses rose by 34.5%, with 460,700 reported cases. This surge emphasizes the urgent need for better protective measures and awareness of environmental risks. Additionally, overexertion caused over 1 million Days Away from Work (DAFW) cases. Analyzing EHS data allows companies to develop targeted safety strategies to prevent such incidents. Key Statistics on Fatal Incidents Fatal workplace injuries also showed a concerning increase in 2022. A total of 5,486 fatal work injuries were recorded, marking a 5.7% increase from the previous year. This rise was accompanied by an increase in fatal injury rates, from 3.6 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers (FTE) in 2021 to 3.7 in 2022. The leading cause of these fatal incidents was transportation-related, accounting for 37.7% of all fatalities. In 2022, there was a slight 4.2% increase in transportation fatalities, reaching 2,066 cases. The overall rise in fatal injuries stresses the importance of further strengthening injury prevention protocols, particularly in high-risk sectors like transportation. Analysis of Fatal Incidents The increase in fatal incidents in 2022 can be attributed to several key factors. Among these, violence and injuries caused by other persons or animals saw a significant rise of 11.6%, with 849 cases reported in 2022. Additionally, unintentional overdoses increased by 13.1%, with 525 fatalities in 2022. These statistics emphasize the need for comprehensive safety training and heightened awareness in sectors where violence and substance abuse are more prevalent. By analyzing these fatality trends, organizations can implement targeted initiatives to address specific risks. Preventable Deaths Statistics According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), nearly 3 million workers die every year from work-related accidents and diseases, despite ongoing efforts to improve workplace safety. Of these deaths, the majority (2.6 million) are attributed to work-related diseases, with circulatory diseases, malignant neoplasms (cancer), and chronic respiratory diseases being the leading causes. Circulatory diseases alone account for 32.36% of work-related fatalities. The data suggests that long working hours, exposure to hazardous substances, and socio-demographic changes, such as an aging workforce, are significant risk factors contributing to these preventable deaths. In particular, male workers experience a significantly higher mortality rate than females, with an average of 108.3 deaths per 100,000 workers compared to 48.4 deaths per 100,000 for females. Zeroing In on COVID-19 and Workplace Safety Numbers The COVID-19 pandemic added a new layer of complexity to workplace safety in 2021 and 2022. In the United States, OSHA conducted 1,860 inspections related to COVID-19, a 9.7% increase from the previous year. The pandemic resulted in 560,750 DAFW cases in the private industry, with the healthcare and social assistance sectors being the most affected. Internationally, nearly 5% of work accidents in 2020 were attributed to COVID-19, and in the EU, the pandemic was responsible for 8% of occupational diseases. Healthcare workers were particularly vulnerable, with 23% of work accidents and 39% of occupational diseases related to COVID-19. These statistics highlight the importance of enhanced health protocols and protective measures, especially in high-risk sectors. Employee Engagement and Data-Driven Strategies Building a safety culture requires engaging employees in meaningful ways. Stats reveal that 45% of employees are uncomfortable addressing unsafe behaviors, making anonymous feedback channels essential. Promoting safety is key; 75% of employees value feeling secure at work. Moreover, 72% are unaware of EHS functions, highlighting the need for education through initiatives like EHS Awareness Day. Employees also crave the ability to provide feedback, with 43% desiring direct communication with the EHS team. Lastly, nearly 50% care about environmental impact, underscoring the importance of integrating sustainability into safety efforts. Conclusion Environmental Health and Safety statistics offer invaluable insights into workplace safety trends and challenges. By analyzing these statistics, organizations can take a proactive approach to reduce workplace injuries and fatalities, improve employee engagement, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Investing in EHS data and fostering a culture of safety will not only protect workers but also contribute to a more productive, sustainable, and compliant workplace. As the workplace evolves, organizations must continue to leverage data to build safer, healthier work environments for their employees.

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