The Definition of Off-the-Job Safety

Definition of Off-the-Job Safety

Off-the-job safety refers to programs and practices that help employees avoid injuries and illnesses outside work, such as at home, on the road, during sports and recreation, and while doing chores or home projects. National Safety Council data show that most deaths and injuries to workers happen off the job, so many employers extend safety training, campaigns and resources beyond the workplace to protect their people and reduce lost time.

Key Facts About Off-the-Job Safety

• Off-the-job injuries cause lost workdays, higher health care costs and staffing gaps, even though they aren't recorded on the OSHA 300 Log.
• Leading off-the-job risks include motor vehicle crashes, falls at home, poisonings and recreational injuries.
• Safety habits learned at work, such as eye protection, ladder safety and hazard awareness, carry over to home life.
• Off-the-job programs are voluntary but are a common sign of a mature Zero Harm safety culture.

Example of Off-the-Job Safety

Before the holidays, a utility company runs a toolbox talk on ladder safety for hanging decorations and impaired driving, and offers employees discounted home smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

How to Build an Off-the-Job Safety Program

1. Review injury and absence data for off-the-job trends.
2. Run seasonal campaigns on driving, home falls, heat, cold and recreation.
3. Share family-friendly resources and encourage workers to bring safety home.
4. Include off-the-job topics in stand-downs and toolbox talks.
5. Recognize employees who share off-the-job safety tips.

Related Terms

• Zero Harm
• Ladder Safety
• Fitness for Duty
• Shift Work Fatigue

Frequently Asked Questions: Off-the-Job Safety

Why should employers care about off-the-job safety?

Injuries outside work still lead to lost time, reduced productivity and higher benefit costs, and they affect the same people the safety program is designed to protect.

Are off-the-job injuries recordable under OSHA?

No. Only work-related injuries and illnesses are recordable, though some off-the-job events, such as fatigue or impairment, can affect safety at work.

What topics work well for off-the-job safety talks?

Distracted and impaired driving, ladder and home fall safety, fire and carbon monoxide safety, safe lifting during home projects, and seasonal weather hazards are popular topics.