Stoppages Around the World for Safety

From 4th to 15th May this year, thousands of companies around the world are observing a "Stand Down" in an attempt to raise awareness and prevent falls in the construction industry.

These are voluntary breaks by employers and they're using this opportunity to remind workers about the dangers of working at height, demonstrating the correct use of fall protection and generally ensure their health and safety procedures and training are up to date.

Several international worksites are participating in this year’s stand-down. Kuwait Oil Company plans to lead stand-downs every work-day from May 6-17. In Japan, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to elevate awareness of fall hazards by disseminating its own Safety Stand-Down materials as part of a fall prevention training package.

The United States Air Force has once again committed its support for the National Safety Stand-Down by hosting events that will reach more than 1.5 million active-duty Airmen, Guard, Reserve, civilians and family members stationed around the world. The Air Force has also partnered with other Department of Defense agencies for the widest possible reach, including international bases.

from http://www.ishn.com/articles/101401-national-safety-stand-down-observed-around-the-world

Promoted by Occupational Safety & Health Administration in the USA, the stand down has spread across the world and is aimed at ensuring employees and employers are fully aware of their duties when working at height. 

The target is to reduce injuries and fatalities in what is intrinsically, a very dangerous job.