Saskatoon Hosts National Launch of NAOSH Week

SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - May 4, 2015) -

Editor's Note: There are two photos associated with this release.

"Disasters aren't predictable, but tragedy is," states Greg Johnson, star of the reality TV show Tornado Hunter. The adventurer is at the Canadian launch of North American Occupational Safety and Health (NAOSH) Week today, 10:00-2:30 pm at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon, SK.

"From natural disasters to crises at work, there is less impact if we prepare ahead of time," adds Johnson. He is sharing lessons learned from chasing storms through Canadian and American prairies. "I'm still alive because of precaution and preparation, tenets that every safety professional lives by."

Jim Hopkins, president, Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE) agrees. "Safety professionals are a lightning rod for receiving and delivering workplace safety expertise. However, every worker shares in the responsibility for making the place they work safer."

To help teach young workers their rights and responsibilities, today's activities at Prairieland Park feature the 'Amazing Safety Quest'. Modeled after The Amazing Race television show, 175 high school students will complete an obstacle course full of quizzes and challenges. Activities range from virtual welding to wearing climbing harnesses. "Learning proper techniques early helps young workers make safety a habit throughout their career," explains Hopkins.

NAOSH Week occurs every year during the first full week of May to raise awareness about occupational safety, health and the environment. The goal is to prevent work injuries and illnesses.

Representatives from CSSE, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), Threads of Life, the Government of Canada and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) are participating in the kick-off activities.

During NAOSH Week, CSSE is encouraging investment in workplace health and safety through events across the country (www.naosh.ca).

About the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering

The Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE) is the largest health, safety and environmental organization for professionals in Canada. It works with industry, governmental agencies, and other safety organizations to promote a greater awareness of health, safety, and environmental issues. www.csse.org

Occupational Safety and Health Professional (OSHP) Day (May 6)

The day was established to honour occupational safety, health and environmental professionals who have dedicated their lives to protecting people, property and the environment.

To view the photo of Greg Johnson, star, Tornado Hunter associated with this release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20150504-800greg.jpg

To view the photo of Jim Hopkins, President, Canadian Society of Safety Engineering associated with this release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20150504-800jim.jpg