Remarks Prepared for Delivery
Krisann Pearce
Chief of Staff
Stand-Up for Grain Safety Week
Pre-Recorded message

Hello. I’m Krisann Pearce, Chief of Staff at OSHA. On behalf of the Agency, thank you for your commitment to improving worker safety in the grain industry.

These are clearly unprecedented times. But, I want you to know that during this period of nationwide challenge, OSHA remains operational and committed to the mission of ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for America’s workers.

Although we are unable to gather for the kick-off event in Ithaca, our shared goal of reducing injuries and preventing fatalities from engulfment remains.

Suffocation continues to be the leading cause of fatality in grain storage bins. A matter of seconds is all it takes for flowing grain to engulf and trap a worker. 

That is why safety can never take a break. We must encourage workers and employers to remain vigilant each and every day. Highlighting and emphasizing how to prevent engulfment is time well spent, and could save a worker’s life.

I’d like to thank the grain industry training and education community, our government partners, and everyone involved in the coordination of the Stand-Up for Grain Safety Week.

Without your hard work and dedication, achieving our shared mission to keep workers safe would not be possible. Together we can make a difference and save lives. 

Thank you and be well.