LEONARDTOWN, MD- The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) has been recognized with the 2024 Health and Safety Award of Excellence by the State Employee Risk Management Administration (SERMA). This accolade highlights the exceptional efforts of the SMCHD Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety & Compliance Committee in fostering a culture of safety and health within the organization.
The award acknowledges the committee’s dedication to increasing safety awareness among team members, enhancing safety knowledge, improving work area safety, and positively impacting the overall health and safety within the agency. These efforts are a testament to the committee’s commitment to creating a safer workplace for all SMCHD employees.
“Our incredible SMCHD team members are working hard daily to serve this community and advance health for the county. Protecting them honors that dedicated service and creates a safer environment for their work,” stated Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “I’m very thankful to our agency’s OSHA Safety & Compliance Committee for their diligence in improving workplace safety. The additional training, improved procedures, and coordinated responses to workplace safety incidents have been part of a wonderful cross-agency effort steered by the Committee.”
The valued members of the SMCHD OSHA Safety and Compliance Committee include Tressa Setlak, Christina Hane, Sonia Vance, Chris Schuhart, Ashley Mowatt, and Chris Shea. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in achieving this prestigious recognition.
The committee has undertaken various initiatives to promote safety, including comprehensive training programs, refined safety procedures, and a systematic approach to managing workplace safety incidents. These measures have not only enhanced the safety culture within the health department but have also contributed to the overall well-being of the community they serve.
By prioritizing safety and health, the SMCHD OSHA Safety & Compliance Committee has set a benchmark for other organizations to follow. Their proactive approach to safety management ensures that employees are well-informed and equipped to handle potential hazards, thereby minimizing risks and fostering a secure working environment.
The recognition from SERMA underscores the importance of workplace safety and the positive impact it has on employee morale and productivity. It also highlights the significant role that health departments play in safeguarding public health through their commitment to safety and compliance.
For more information about the St. Mary’s County Health Department and its various programs, visit smchd.org.
