Educational sessions packed at VPPPA Safety+ in Orlando

Next year's conference set for August 2024 in Aurora, Colorado

Credit: Benita Mehta

Doug Pontsler speaks about visual literacy and workplace safety at VPPPA Safety+ on September 23, 2023 in Orlando, Florida

Those who attended the VPPPA Safety+ event came ready to learn, as evident by standing-room only crowds at many of the educational sessions the week of September 22, 2023 in Orlando.

One of those sessions was by Doug Pontsler, chairman and CEO of COVE, who discussed in detail his unique take on workplace safety and injury prevention using visual literacy. He gave an insightful presentation about the intersection of art criticism and safety. He showed the audience a piece of art from the Toledo Art Museum, where he developed a process called The Art of Seeing Art. He explained why analyzing how and why everyone sees different things in art can also apply to workplace safety.

For more information on Doug Pontsler's unique approach and visual literacy, check out some of his columns, such as this one.

OSHA at VPPPA

Jim Frederick, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, spoke during an OSHA Mega Session. He shared some thoughts on OSHA's workplace safety initiatives. VPPPA has often invited OSHA officials to their annual show. Last year featured Assistant Secretary of Labor Doug Parker.

Another OSHA session was all about public input. OSHA staff members asked the full audience what they would like to see from OSHA as well as what sorts of changes they'd like to see implemented. Many attendees were eager to voice their opinions. Some suggestions included better accommodations for non-native English speakers, how to implement whistleblower protections and how to encourage workers to speak up without retaliation.

Plans for 2024

Next year’s VPPPA Safety+ 2024 is scheduled for Sunday, August 25 to Wednesday, August 29, 2024, at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, 6700 North Gaylord Rockies Blvd Aurora, CO 80019.

Guests at the annual event can expect a variety of workshops, opportunities for peer-to-peer networking and an exhibition featuring innovative SMS products and services.

Registration for Safety+ Symposium 2024 is now open and includes access to all official activities, including workshops, exhibit hall, networking receptions and provided meals. Register here: https://vpppa.atlasams.com/events/Safety-Symposium-2024-7564/details