Workplace Safety Experts, Injured Marine to Highlight 2014 Ohio Safety Congress and Expo

The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation will welcome several nationally recognized experts and speakers at its annual conference, which takes place March 25-27 in Columbus.

The 2014 Ohio Safety Congress and Expo, which will be held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, will feature several workplace safety experts from the Battelle Memorial Institute, as well as a U.S. Marine who will talk about his experience with occupational injury and recovery.

"Safety Congress brings employers together to focus on workplace safety, and one of the many highlights each year is hearing from our general-session speakers, who share their expertise and valuable insight into the field of occupational safety and health," BWC Administrator/CEO Steve Buehrer said. "This year is no different, and we're excited to hear from experts who are developing new approaches to the prevention of workplace injuries, as well as one especially inspiring story from a Marine whose determination allowed him to persevere despite suffering disabling injuries."

Among the anticipated highlights:

• A panel of safety and research experts from Battelle will share a number of their innovations, including an adaption of a technology created for the U.S. Air Force that now is helping airline mechanics do their jobs more safely.
• Marine Cpl. Mark O'Brien will explain how his life changed dramatically on his second tour of duty in Iraq. Mark lost his right arm and leg when he was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade that ripped through the armor of his Humvee. Mark's story illustrates how important training, personal protective equipment, support systems and teamwork are to safe workplaces.
• Speaker Scott Deming will share how employers and workplace safety professionals can effectively communicate so employees embrace their company's safety mission and objectives. Deming is a motivational speaker, author and consultant.

In addition, the event will feature demonstrations and full-day workshops covering the latest safety and health information and best practices, as well as 175 educational sessions offering continuing education units covering all 12 professions.

The Expo Marketplace will host 225 exhibitors offering safety services, industrial supplies, safety equipment and gear and workers' compensation and medical management services.

According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation, the annual Ohio Safety Congress and Expo is the largest regional safety and health conference in the nation, attracting more than 6,000 attendees annually.