29-Day Challenge highlights importance of workplace safety
Posted Sep 29, 2015 7:49 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
They want to make workplaces the safest places to be.
The 29-Day Challenge kicks off Tuesday, in honour of Calgary Police Constable John Petropoulos, who died in the line of duty fifteen years ago.
The 32-year old was killed September 29, 2000, after falling through a false ceiling while investigating a break and enter complaint.
An investigation found a safety railing — that should have been installed in the warehouse by law — could have saved Petropoulos’ life.
Since the police officer’s death, there have been 1,900 work fatalities in Alberta.
Maryanne Pope, John’s wife, said it was important her husband’s death wasn’t in vain, and that’s why this challenge is trying to prevent another tragedy.
“Sometimes it’s the smallest little changes that people can make, like just removing clutter from an emergency exit means that a firefighter can get out in case of fire,” she said. “It can change a life and make a huge difference.”
Ian Wilson, the Managing Director of the John Petropoulos Memorial Fund, encourages people to follow #29DayChallenge for important tips through to October 27.
“Things from, you know, even just not talking on your cell phone while you’re driving,” he said. “Things that people may be aware of, but just kind of challenging them to improve their safety habits.”
You can also make a $29 donation to the JPMF, to help pay for safety presentations across Alberta.