The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) recently signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with three safety organizations that will expand the Society鈥檚 efforts to advance worker safety and health. The Society extended an existing alliance with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and created new strategic partnerships with the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) and Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA). The three alliances are among many joint agreements ASSP now has in place to improve the well-being of workers in all industries.
鈥淲e recognize the benefits of collaboration to improve occupational safety and health practices while elevating the voice of our profession,鈥� said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. 鈥淭ogether we strive to strengthen advocacy efforts, implement programs and create standards that reduce worker illnesses, injuries and fatalities.鈥�
Over several years, ASSP and NIOSH have worked cooperatively on conducting and implementing workplace safety research; promoting best practices and professional development opportunities; and encouraging employers to use safety and health management systems that are the cornerstone of successful businesses.
ASSP鈥檚 work with ISEA will better connect the Society to leading businesses and corporate leaders involved in the manufacturing, testing and application of personal protective equipment and safety products. The agreement will also support the development of voluntary national consensus standards.
ASSP鈥檚 work with MCAA will widen the Society鈥檚 access to safety professionals through greater involvement in MCAA鈥檚 safety and health conference 鈥� one of the longest-running construction conferences. The annual event offers training and education courses designed to improve safety practices among mechanical contractors.
鈥淥ur mutual interests in improving the well-being of workers create valuable opportunities to work together,鈥� Walaski said. 鈥淥ur MOUs with a range of organizations enhance our ability to engage in more stakeholder meetings and safety education events throughout the year, and expand the safety profession鈥檚 influence in optimizing organizational performance.鈥�