Safety Awards Program

The N.C. Department of Labor Safety Awards Program recognizes private firms and public agencies throughout the state that achieve and maintain outstanding safety records. The program is designed to stimulate interest in accident prevention and to promote safety in the workplace by providing an incentive to employers and employees to maintain a safe and healthful workplace.

In continuous operation since 1946, the program extends to all North Carolina employers, and more than 3,000 awards are presented annually. The Safety Awards Program is operated within the Education, Training and Technical Assistance Bureau of the Occupational Safety and Health Division. There are two levels under the annual Safety Awards Program, gold and silver. The award level is determined by the qualifying criteria. The annual Safety Awards are presented during ceremonies that take place each spring at 30 locations across North Carolina. Local groups, such as the chamber of commerce or various associations, co-sponsor these events.

In addition, the Million-hour Safety Awards are given to firms that accumulate one million employee hours with no case of injury or illness involving days away from work. Subsequent Safety Awards are given for each additional one million of safe employee hours. The Million-Hour Safety Awards are also presented during the annual Safety Awards Banquet season.