ORLANDO, FL -- Underscoring its dedication to advance safer, healthier, more equitable workplaces, the National Safety Council presented the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Safety Champion awards during the opening session of its 2024 Safety Congress & Expo. The award recognizes stand-out safety professionals who share a commitment to fostering safer environments and outcomes for all. 

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Safety Champion recognition includes three award categories: 

Culture, which honors organizations that have excelled in embedding DEI into their organizational safety culture and demonstrated their commitment to advancing psychological safety

People, which recognizes organizations that have effectively identified inequities and successfully promoted diversity across their safety operations and workforce

Program Innovations, which awards organizations that have successfully used innovation to address barriers to physical and psychological safety underrepresented groups may face in the workplace

 “Equitable workplaces are safer workplaces,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC president and CEO. “That’s why the National Safety Council recognizes and celebrates those organizations that embrace the intersecting nature of safety and equity. These inaugural winners aren’t just making this a reality for their workers each day, but have also provided a valuable DEI blueprint we hope other organizations will follow to create safer workplaces for all.” 

The 2024 DEI Safety Champions for each category include the following organizations: 

AtkinsRealis (Culture DEI Safety Champion) 
AtkinsRéalis US Nuclear is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace, recognizing that its greatest asset is its team members. The organization integrates Diversity, Equity and Inclusion into its core values, enhancing organizational success, safety culture and employee wellbeing. Key initiatives include psychological safety training, mentorship programs, inclusive hiring practices and partnerships for mental health support. The company also promotes employee resource groups to empower employees and foster community. By creating an environment where all voices are heard and valued, AtkinsRéalis US Nuclear drives innovation, creativity and a sense of belonging, making it a stronger, more inclusive and safer workplace for all.

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (People DEI Safety Champion) 
SMACNA launched a safety sponsorship program as part of its commitment to fostering diversity within the safety workforce. Designed to promote inclusivity in the unionized industry by providing financial support for qualified individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to attend the NSC Safety Congress & Expo, the program provides the opportunity for recipients to gain exposure to cutting-edge technology, education and networking. Positive feedback from participants highlights the program's effectiveness in promoting professional growth and advancing diversity in the safety profession. SMACNA aims to make this program a key component of its ongoing efforts to build a workforce where each employee's talents are recognized and valued.

Central Plateau Cleanup Company (Program Innovations DEI Safety Champion) 
The Central Plateau Cleanup Company values diversity and inclusion, believing it strengthens the workforce and enhances the ability to meet challenges. To promote safety, inclusion and teamwork, CPCCo launched the Healthy and Mission Ready program, focusing on employee health and wellbeing through awareness, education and habits that prepare them physically and mentally for daily tasks. Each month, CPCCo introduces a health or safety "pillar," like ethics, mindfulness or diversity, led by a sponsor and champion within the organization. The program's success depends on employee inclusion, fostering a workplace where diverse perspectives are encouraged and shared.

Any organization with at least 50 employees that champions DEI may apply or be nominated for the award. Learn more about the DEI Safety Champion Recognition program, and for information about other awards, visit nsc.org/awards.