Focusing on safety and health in the workplace is one of the surest investments you can make in today’s economy. Creating a culture of safety on the job can produce immediate dividends including improved productivity and reduced workers’ compensation costs.

Workplace safety leaders from around Washington will be among the speakers at a one-day seminar on March 6, hosted by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).

Employers will learn from industry experts who have been recognized for safety excellence, including Carlisle Construction Materials, Nucor Steel Seattle, Inc., Associated General Contractors of Washington, NuStar Energy and the University of Washington. They’ll present on a variety of topics including “Social media and Safety Culture” and “Getting People Involved in Safety.”

The keynote speaker is Leigh Anne Jasheway, MPH, a stress management consultant who uses humor to manage change and conflict and to boost teamwork and morale. Her presentation, “Laughter is a Basic Tool for Health, Safety and Sanity,” is educational and fun.

The free seminar is sponsored by L&I’s Voluntary Protection Program (www.Lni.wa.gov/VPP). It’s designed for managers, safety professionals, safety committee members and anyone interested in improving workplace safety. The daylong event is in Tumwater at the L&I auditorium, 7273 Linderson Way SW. Pre-registration is required (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2018VPPSEMINAR).

The Voluntary Protection Program promotes workplace safety and health through cooperative relationships between management, labor and government. Go to www.Lni.wa.gov/VPP for more information and the meeting agenda.

– Washington State Department of Labor & Industries