'Safe + Sound Week' to Highlight Mental Health in Workplace

While it’s important to have resources on-hand to prevention workplace injuries or hazardous situations, equally important are avenues employees can take to alleviate stress and get the help they need with mental struggles. 

With mental wellbeing top of mind, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will join businesses nationwide to recognize the successes of workplace safety and health programs during Safe + Sound Week, Aug. 7-13, 2023.

The annual event involves thousands of worksites that will promote the benefits of safety and health programs that include management leadership, worker participation, and a systematic approach to finding and fixing hazards. Businesses that incorporate safety and health programs can help prevent injuries and illnesses, reduce workers' compensation costs and improve productivity.

"We want businesses to have a system, not just good intentions, and make safety a core value for every worker in every workplace," says 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 and well-being and resources to help alleviate workplace stress and support mental health. Mental health, workplace stress and suicide have very real work-related implications, especially in the construction industry where the suicide rate is 3½ times higher than that of the general population.

Sign up to participate in Safe + Sound Week here. Organizations of any size or in any industry looking for an opportunity to show their commitment to safety can participate. Last year, more than 3,300 businesses helped raise awareness about workers' safety and health.

Read up on tips for managing stress in the workplace here.