WHEREAS, the residents of Maine value safe and healthy workplaces for all of our citizens; and

WHEREAS, the majority of workplace injuries and fatalities are preventable, however more than 5,000 U.S. workers die each year from job-related injuries, and millions more suffer occupational injuries and illnesses; and

WHEREAS, in 2023, at least 23 Maine workers died while either on the job, traveling to or from the job, or as a result of an injury or illness connected to their work; and

WHEREAS, U.S. businesses spend $170 billion a year on costs tied to occupational injuries, illnesses and healthcare, as well as facing intangible costs of losing a loved one, friend or coworker; and

WHEREAS, organizations with safer workplaces enjoy increased productivity, higher employee satisfaction, a better reputation and an improved bottom line; and

WHEREAS, during the week of August 12-18, 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the membership of leading safety professional organizations, and corporate and association partners representing thousands of businesses will recognize the importance of safety and health programs in every workplace and encourage organizations to hold safety as a core value;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim the week of August 12-18, 2024 as

Safe + Sound Week

in Maine, and I encourage all organizations, community leaders, employers and employees to support activities designed to increase awareness of the importance of safe workplaces for all.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this twenty fifth day of July Two Thousand Twenty-Four