HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Base safety officials observed Safe + Sound Week here Sept. 8-12.
The annual campaign, sponsored by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, focused on the theme “Response-Ready Workplace,” emphasizing worker participation and familiarity with emergency action plans.
“We are focusing on preparedness because safety awareness doesn't just start when you get to work,” said Tech. Sgt. Isabella Saltmarsh, 66th Air Base Group Safety superintendent. “We try to ingrain in personnel the need to prepare to be safe, 24/7, and to take action.”
Emergency action plans prepare personnel for incidents such as weather-related disasters, hurricanes, tornados, fires, chemical spills, and explosions. Plans also encourage meetings to review and practice responding to different types of emergencies.
“A big portion of what we do involves going out and walking through spaces and observing what's going on within the units,” said Saltmarsh. “We find ways to help, rather than just conducting no-notice inspections, so we can show them we are always available.”
Base safety officials also used the weeklong event to recognize outstanding contributions from personnel who are practicing high safety standards.
Safety personnel showcased how safety is integrated within the units, while also recognizing the members who continue to contribute to a safer workplace.
“We have great Airmen and civilians playing key roles in safety practices and we want to recognize their efforts,” said Saltmarsh.
Base leadership, alongside safety personnel, awarded certificates of appreciation to several individuals assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron, 66th Civil Engineering Division Central Plant, 66th Force Support Squadron, and Fourth Cliff Recreational Area in Scituate, Massachusetts.
Earlier this year, the 66th Air Base Group Safety Office was recognized as the “Best Small Safety Office in the Air Force,” earning the Chief of Safety Outstanding Achievement Award.
For more information on the Safe + Sound campaign, visit https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Safe-Sound/