Workplace safety event lands at mall June 11

As workers' compensation premiums continue to rise after Sept. 11, so does the importance of workplace safety.

To increase workplace safety awareness and promote workers' compensation prevention, Missouri Employers Mutual Insurance is conducting WorkSAFE Week 2002, June 10-14. The series of statewide events includes a stop in Springfield from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. June 11 at Battlefield Mall.

This year's theme, "Launching a WorkSAFE Attitude," is modeled after the nation's space program, whose safety philosophy is that "Mission success begins with safety."

Former NASA astronaut, Col. Mike Mullane is the week's spokesperson.

"During WorkSAFE Week 2002, I am challenging every employer to adopt this motto and encourage employees to be safe on the job," Mullane said in a news release.

Mullane, who flew aboard the shuttles Discovery and Atlantis, will speak at the mall about his experiences in space, emphasizing the similarities between safety in space and safety on the job. He also will be available for autographs and photos.

Attendees can simulate weightlessness in a Gyro Ball, experience zero gravity in the Bungee Spin and bounce in the inflatable Moon Walk bounce house.

Other stops throughout the state are in Kansas City, Columbia and St. Louis. It is the sixth year for WorkSAFE Week events.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 6.8 percent of all Missouri employees are injured on the job, resulting in millions of dollars in workers' compensation claims.

"Workplace injuries and deaths continue to be a significant threat for Missourians," said Missouri Employers Mutual Vice President of Loss Prevention and Administration Bob Gibson. "Until they can be eliminated, we must continue to stress the role attitude and commitment have in injury prevention."