Introduction
- Jeff Francis, Assistant Administrator, Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation
Session Description
On April 28, 1970 Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act which established OSHA. It was signed into law by President Richard Nixon on December 29, 1970, promising workers the right to a safe and healthful workplace. In the 47 years since, workplaces have evolved and more jobs fall outside the traditional nine to five time slot. And, fatality rates have fallen. It is estimated by the USDOL that some 14,000 workers were killed on the job in 1970. That number fell to 4,340 in 2009 even though the nation’s workforce doubled. However, workplace hazards remain and fatalities still occur.
This session will raise awareness about the need to strengthen our commitment to make jobs safer and will honor those Tennessee workers killed at work from May 1, 2017 through April 30, 2018. Sessions that follow will highlight the preventable nature of most workplace accidents and ill health.
Up Next: Networking Break then Recognition of the inaugural Sue Ann Head Award Winner at 9:45 AM