By Ellen S. Nasner, BWCEducation and Training Services Manager
Safety First is a phrase we’ve all heard, but where did it come from? It originates from the Safety First Movement, a 20th century movement to reduce workplace hazards. The phrase has been in use since in the United States since the 1910s. It also became popular in Japan around this same time.
At that time in America, railroads and mines were some of the most dangerous places to work, yet they had the least protection for workers. In 1908, the federal government established a very limited compensation system for its employees which helped spur the states into action. In 1910, New York became the first state to pass a workmen’s compensation law.
Ohio followed soon after with the passage of the Ohio Workmen’s Compensation act in 1911. This act came in response to the unchecked and frequent workplace injuries and fatalities of the Industrial Era. It created a state insurance fund in 1912 to compensate workers who were injured on the job. The Industrial Commission of Ohio ran the system until 1955, when the Ohio General Assembly created the Ohio Bureau of Workmen’s Compensation.
Around this same time (1913 to be exact), the National Safety Council formed and adopted the emblem of a green cross with arms of equal length on a white background. To this day, it remains the symbol of protection against accidents. The federal government created the U.S. Department of Labor on March 4, 1913. By 1921, 46 states/jurisdictions had workmen’s compensation laws in force. Fifty years later – on April 28, 1971 – the Occupational Safety and Health Administration launched. Step by step, Safety First for the worker and the workplace moved to the forefront in the U.S.
Today, BWC’s Division of Safety & Hygiene plays a critical role to ensure safety comes first in Ohio’s workplaces. Find out more about all of the services and programs we offer employers and employees at no cost right here: www.bwc.ohio.gov/catalog.
Fun fact: Safety comes from the French word “sauf” – which is the condition of being protected from harm or other non-desirable outcomes. So, remember – Safety First!
FAQs
Safety First is a phrase we've all heard, but where did it come from? It originates from the Safety First Movement, a 20th century movement to reduce workplace hazards. The phrase has been in use since in the United States since the 1910s. It also became popular in Japan around this same time.
What is a famous quote on safety? ›
“The danger which is least expected soonest comes to us." “At the end of the day, the goals are simple: Safety and security." “The safety of the people shall be the highest law." “The automobile has brought death, injury and the most inestimable sorrow and deprivation to millions of people."
What is the saying about safety first? ›
“When safety is first, you last.” – Author unknown. “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” – Author unknown. “Accidents hurt, safety doesn't.” – Author unknown. “Every accident is a notice that something is wrong with men, methods, or material — investigate — then act.” – Unknown.
What is a catchy safety motto? ›
20 Catchy and Rhyming Safety Slogans
If you mess up, 'fess up. To avoid a scene keep your workplace clean. Do your work with pride, put safety in every stride. Turn your attention to accident prevention.
Who invented safety first? ›
Born from the personal experience and desire of one man, Michael Lerner, to keep children safe, especially during car trips, Safety 1st was created in the USA in 1984. The original “Baby on board” road sign the brand was selling then is still a best seller now.
Is safety First a quote? ›
"Safety First is Safety Always.” "Not responding is a response - we are equally responsible for what we don't do.” "Safety is our first concern, not deadlines. Nothing will happen until everything is ready, and we're absolutely confident.
What movie is the safety first quote from? ›
Be careful. Wear shoes in the house. Safety. Safety first, then teamwork.
What is the slogan safety 1st? ›
A safety slogan poster "Safety First. Avoid The Worst." Maintain awareness of things and actions that can cause injuries to you and others. This is true whether you are home or in the workplace.
What is the saying safety first? ›
So to put it together.....”Safety First” means to put the condition of being safe from harm, injury or loss before other matters; making safety of considerable importance.
What is the safety first rule? ›
The safety-first rule is a principle of modern portfolio theory ( MPT), which believes the risk is an inherent part of reaping a higher reward level. Safety first, in this case, means reducing the probability of negative returns.
said to mean that it is best to avoid any unnecessary risks and to act so that you stay safe. Paying attention and being careful.
What are the 3 safety words? ›
Signal Words Classify Hazards
Signal words like Danger, Warning, Caution and Notice each have a specific connotation that can mean the difference between life and death. Using them correctly on your signs, decals and labels helps ensure that people from all backgrounds can recognize and understand the potential danger.
What is the slogan for driving safety? ›
Road Safety Slogans in English
“Safety First, Speed Second.” “Your Family Awaits, Drive Safely.” “Slow Down, Save Lives.” “Don't Text and Drive, Arrive Alive.”
What are the rhyming slogans for safety? ›
Safety Slogans that Rhyme
“Don't be a fool, follow the safety rule.” “Be aware, show you care.” “Stay alive, take the safety dive.” “Avoid the harm, use your arm.”
What is the slogan for quality and safety? ›
Safety is the priority. Quality is the standard. An injury today could mean no work tomorrow. A hazard mitigated today can mean an injury prevented tomorrow.
Why do we consider the term "safety first"? ›
Safety 1st is a slogan that means it's always best to avoid unnecessary risks. It sounds like an easy task, but sometimes we so hurry in making deadlines and meeting the goals that we forget about the safety of ourselves and others. We encourage you to remember this slogan because it can ultimately save lives!
What does the idiom safety first mean? ›
idiom. said to mean that it is best to avoid any unnecessary risks and to act so that you stay safe. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. Paying attention and being careful.
What is the concept of safety first? ›
The Safety First Program adheres to the following safety principles that provide the foundation for managing risk: • Always operate in the safest manner possible. Never take unnecessary risks. Safe does not mean risk free. The key to safety is the identification and management of risk.
What is the origin of safety? ›
The first age of safety started with the Industrial Revolution in 1750-1760 and the invention of the steam engine. Most accidents were from the technology failing, injuring workers and the public. The focus of safety management was to ensure the technology was safe to use.
Safety First is a phrase we’ve all heard, but where did it come from? It originates from the Safety First Movement, a 20th century movement to reduce workplace hazards. The phrase has been in use since in the United States since the 1910s. It also became popular in Japan around this same time.
Today, BWC’s Division of Safety & Hygiene plays a critical role to ensure safety comes first in Ohio’s workplaces. Find out more about all of the services and programs we offer employers and employees at no cost right here: www.bwc.ohio.gov/catalog.