From Safety 2015: ASSE President Ennis Urges Attendees to Challenge Status Quo, Elevate Their Practice

During today's opening general session in Dallas, TX, ASSE President Trish Ennis said that the OSH profession has accomplished many great things, but must continue to do more to improve the lives of workers around the world, especially in light of the fact that more than 4,000 people have died on the job in the U.S. in each of the past 5 years.

"Clearly we must do more to convince our senior leaders, policy makers and other key stakeholders to take the urgent action needed to create safe and healthy workplaces," she said. "We must do more to reduce the lasting consequences produced by these statistics. This means we must make every effort to ensure that our counsel is not only heard, but also acted upon."

Ennis also urged attendees to remain forward-focused on elevating the OSH profession. "We must challenge the profession’s status quo and develop a common understanding of the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to perform OSH roles effectively." She also reminded attendees to interact with as many attendees as possible: "There are an amazing number of difference makers at this conference, from respected sages like Fred Manuele to leading thinkers such as Darryl Hill and Joel Haight, and  future leaders like Jayme Hobson and Ricky Sanders," she said. "I urge you to take advantage of these great opportunities to learn all that you can so that you will elevate your practice and make a difference for this profession."