GETTYSBURG, PA — The Gettysburg Foundation has been recognized for its exemplary dedication to workplace safety, receiving the prestigious 2024 Governor’s Award for Safety Excellence (GASE). The award, presented by Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Secretary Nancy A. Walker, highlights the Foundation’s outstanding safety programs, collaborative efforts, and achievements in protecting employees and visitors alike.
The Governor’s Award for Safety Excellence, one of the Commonwealth’s most competitive workplace safety honors, has been celebrating organizations since 1997 for their exemplary practices in reducing injury rates, fostering labor-management cooperation, and innovating safety solutions. The Gettysburg Foundation, which manages several prominent historical properties such as the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, stands out as one of only two recipients of this year’s award.
“Ensuring the safety of workers is among the highest responsibilities of any employer and is a top priority for the Shapiro Administration,” Secretary Walker stated during the ceremony at the Gettysburg Foundation. “The Gettysburg Foundation exemplifies what can be achieved when safety becomes a shared priority among management, employees, and guests. Their dedication not only protects workers but also sets a powerful example for tourist organizations across Pennsylvania.”
Serving over 750,000 visitors each year across its network of sites, including the Children of Gettysburg 1863 Museum and the Kinsley Leadership Center, the Foundation has distinguished itself through its robust safety initiatives and zero-incident workplace record for the past three years. Brian Shaffer, Vice President of Facilities at the Gettysburg Foundation, commended the collective effort behind the achievement.
“Winning this award highlights the Foundation’s commitment to creating a safe environment for all staff and visitors, demonstrated by our zero-incident safety record over the past three years,” Shaffer acknowledged. “This achievement reflects the proactive and collaborative efforts of our entire team, and we are deeply proud of the recognition.”
Key Safety Achievements
The Gettysburg Foundation’s recognition is built on its steadfast focus on safety and risk management, drawing attention to several notable accomplishments:
- Flawless Record: Over three years without a single workplace safety incident.
- Exceptional Risk Management: The Foundation boasts an experience modification factor of 0.817, indicating safety performance well above industry norms.
- Employee-Inspired Measures: Responding to staff input, the Foundation developed an exclusive evacuation route, reducing risks by avoiding visitor areas during emergencies.
- Unified Safety Practices: Safety protocols have been consistently implemented across all seven operational entities under the Foundation’s management.
- Emergency Preparedness: Working closely with local first responders, the Foundation has developed and rehearsed plans to address threats, such as active shooter scenarios.
L&I’s Role in Advancing Workplace Safety
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry plays a central role in fostering workplace safety through a combination of programs, training opportunities, and recognition initiatives like the GASE award. L&I’s Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Health & Safety Division encourages the establishment of certified workplace safety committees, an effort that provides participating organizations with a five percent discount on workers’ compensation insurance premiums.
Since 1994, more than 13,000 such committees have been established across the state, helping to protect over 1.6 million workers. To date, this initiative has resulted in an estimated $825 million in workers’ compensation premium savings for Pennsylvania businesses.
Another key initiative is the Pennsylvania Training for Health and Safety (PATHS) program, a statewide service launched in 2012 that offers free, customizable safety training to meet the specific needs of employers. Serving over 35,000 participants annually, PATHS equips organizations with the tools and knowledge to prevent workplace incidents and maintain safety standards.
A Model of Excellence
The Gettysburg Foundation’s achievement serves as an inspiring example for businesses and organizations across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the tourism and nonprofit sectors. By prioritizing safety and involving employees in proactive solutions, the Foundation has set an impressive benchmark for workplace safety in high-traffic environments.
The 2024 Governor’s Award for Safety Excellence is a testament to the Foundation’s leadership in creating a safe, inclusive, and well-prepared work environment. With this accolade, the Gettysburg Foundation reinforces its reputation not only as a steward of Pennsylvania’s historical treasures but also as a leader in safeguarding its workforce and visitors.
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