Holy Spirit High School captures first prize in young worker safety radio ad contest

Joe O�Neill, CEO (acting) of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation and Ralph Tucker, chair of the Board of Directors, were today joined by Dianne Whalen, Minister of Government Services and minister responsible for occupational health and safety, for a special presentation at Holy Spirit High School in Manuals. Holy Spirit won a $2,500 prize package for placing first in the SAFE Work Newfoundland and Labrador, Workplace Safety 3220 Young Worker Safety Radio Ad Contest.

The school�s prize package consists of a 42-inch, flat screen plasma television set and an audio visual library of occupational health and safety resources materials. Exploits Valley High School in Grand Falls-Windsor captured the second place award � a $500 gift certificate to purchase occupational health and safety resources materials. Honourable mention in the contest went to Laval High School in Placentia.

The commission offered the radio ad contest to all senior high schools in the province participating in Workplace Safety 3220, in an effort to heighten awareness about the importance of occupational health and safety for youth.

"I believe one of the greatest investments we can make, is to educate young people on the importance of workplace health and safety," said Joe O�Neill.

Canadian statistics show that one in seven young workers is injured at a workplace. In 2004 alone, 92,025 young between the ages 15-29, were seriously injured on the job, representing one in every four injured workers in Canada. "This number is far too high and shows that we should all do more to learn about working safely," stated Mr. O�Neill. "The good news is � most injuries can be prevented if governments, organizations like the commission, teachers, parents, employers, teens and others work together. As a team � we can make a difference!"

"Interest in opportunities such as the SAFE Work, Workplace Safety 3220 Young Worker Radio Ad Contest, and enrollment in the Workplace Safety 3220 course are encouraging," says Minister Whalen. "Learning the facts now, as students who are just entering the workforce, gives these individuals a great advantage compared to other students who, just a few short years ago, did not have these same opportunities. "It�s great to know that young people are now being armed with the knowledge that will help keep them safe throughout their working years."

To achieve the highest levels of safety, young workers must possess knowledge, about the hazards they encounter, practical skills to avoid them and the motivation to apply their safety skills and knowledge.

"Ultimately, we want to help reduce the number of workplace accidents for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, through public education and awareness," said Ralph Tucker. "We are confident that Holy Spirit High School�s award-winning radio ad will help to do just that!"

If we can spot the hazard and assess the risk we will find a safer way everyday!

Ministerial Statement:
SAFE Work Newfoundland and Labrador Red Bracelet Campaign

Media contact: Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Communications Officer, (709) 778-1566

2006 05 03                                          2:35 p.m.