The game, located at http://www.dontbeazombieatwork.org, features the imaginary evil “BodgeDab” industries. Players help their co-workers avoid becoming a “zombie” by finding tools and information from embedded EHS professionals to stay safe on the job. Instructions and quizzes are provided throughout the game.
ASSE members developed the game to make teenagers more aware of workplace hazards. In 2007, a total of 117 teens under the age of 18 died from work-related injuries and another 77,000 teen workers were hurt badly enough to end up in hospital emergency rooms. Nationally, about 230,000 teens suffer work-related injuries, with most of those injuries occurring in the retail or service industries, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Slippery floors, hot cooking equipment, heavy lifting, loud noises and working alone are some of the dangers teens face as they take that first job or seasonal employment. These dangers can lead to fatalities and serious injury if workers are not aware of them and how to protect themselves against being injured on the job.
ASSE created “Don’t Be a Zombie at Work” in an effort to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities. Other free young worker tools include the “Be Safe At Work: Tips for Teens” bookmark and the brochures “Important Workplace Safety Guide for Young Workers” and “Preventing Roadway Crashes.”
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