2024 National Safety Council Annual Safety Congress: Innovation and Safety Practices

Henderson Companies reaffirmed our commitment to “people first, safety always” at the National Safety Council (NSC) Annual Safety Congress, recognizing that building a better world starts with ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being. As the world’s largest safety gathering, the event shared invaluable practices and cutting-edge technologies, providing participants with resources to make a meaningful impact in the field and adapt to the evolving industry.

During the event, we covered several topics including the concepts of human organizational performance (HOP) and behavioral based safety (BBS), both essential to improving safety outcomes. HOP focuses on improving performance by addressing system-level factors such as culture, procedures, training, and design. On the other hand, BBS focuses on modifying individual behaviors to improve safety results. Each model offers unique benefits with a common goal to keep employees safe.

Transforming Workplace Safety Through Innovation

With over 1,000 vendors in attendance, we had the opportunity to see standout innovations firsthand, including wearable exoskeletons. These unique devices are designed to assist with lifting objects, carrying large loads, and improving ergonomics. This type of equipment is becoming more common across the construction industry, logistics facilities such as distribution centers and warehouses, and the agriculture industry due to the promising benefits it offers. As companies explore innovative solutions to reduce fatigue and physical demands during everyday tasks, we can expect to see more of this technology being implemented.

Exoskeletons are designed to alleviate strain and provide support for different parts of the body, primarily on the back and shoulders. While these devices are off to a great start, there is still room for improvement when it comes to the longevity and accessibility for the end user. Each exoskeleton suit must be carefully fitted to the individual and task at hand to mitigate the risk of personal injury. Additionally, many of the suits have protruding wires or springs and can snag on objects, making it challenging for users to wear personal fall protection or use toolbelts while working. Despite these obstacles, studies indicate that exoskeletons have shown their potential to reduce workers compensation rates when used properly.

Exploring New Ideas

The annual convention offered valuable networking opportunities, with over 12,000 safety, health, and environmental professionals, as well as distributors, in attendance. The diversity among industries and experience levels created an ideal space for sharing ideas and exploring innovative safety solutions.

As a people-first, client-centric firm, ensuring the safety of our employee-owners is at the core of everything we do. NSC’s Annual Safety Congress provided an opportunity for us to strengthen our pledge of “People First, Safety Always” while expanding our knowledge, and exploring cutting-edge technologies.