Employers know the importance of keeping their workforce safe and this week members of the Michigan Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) are making a commitment to encourage safe driving practices as they take part in Drive Safely Work Week which begins today.

Drive Safely Work Week is an employee-centered traffic safety campaign, which runs Oct. 6-10, that focuses on safe driving both on the job and off. NETS partners are provided educational materials to teach employees about safety and promote safe driving practices.

Traffic crashes are the leading cause of on-the-job fatalities. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, one in four work-related deaths is due to a traffic-related trauma. Drive Safely Work Week is designed to encourage businesses to establish or expand work place traffic safety programs in their own organizations.

"When an employee is involved in a traffic crash, it affects them personally of course, but can also impact their workplace and co-workers. We hope the information presented during Drive Safely Work Week will help prevent crashes and keep employees safe and on the job," said Michael L. Prince, Office of Highway Safety Planning director.

During the 12th annual Drive Safely Work Week, thousands of businesses and organizations all over the country will be invited to participate in the awareness campaign. Participating agencies can download a free tool kit of lessons and information as well as a variety of incentive and promotional items for purchase.

The Michigan NETS program, sponsored by OHSP, has grown from a membership of about 250 in 1996 to over 900 members in 2008. Businesses are encouraged to adopt safety belt use policies, reward employees for safety belt use, include articles in company newsletters, display posters and provide safe driving reminders and tips throughout the year.