A participant tries
to walk a straight
line as she wears a
special type of goggles
that simulate
the sensory effects
of intoxication.

"Workplaces with a strong safety culture result in lower accident rates, lower turnover, absenteeism, and higher productivity. Safety is achieved step-by-step and in an environment where employees go beyond the call of duty to achieve safety and safety is rewarded and practiced continually. You’ll know you have a strong safety culture when everyone is committed, not just the Administrator."

Activities on Safety and Health Day included various demonstrations, including computer workstation ergonomics, seated massage, and workplace emergency procedures presented by the Federal Protective Service. In one room, assorted safety and health videos played throughout the day, and various seminars were ongoing.

One safety demonstration conducted in the lobby was particularly entertaining and impactful. A special type of goggles simulating the sensory affects of intoxication were offered. After putting the goggles on, participants were challenged to walk a straight line. Demonstrating the difficulty in maintaining motor control while feeling the affects of intoxication stressed the message, at the very least, not to drink and drive.

Another aspect of health and well-being is having healthy relationships. A humorous and educational program presented mid-day proved to be quite popular, considering the large attendance. The program, arranged by the employee assistance program, was based on the best-selling book, "Men Are From Mars; Women Are From Venus." Entitled "Gender Astronomy: Communication and Patterns between Martians and Venetians," two psychologists, who are also husband and wife, co-presented the program.

Having completed training sponsored by the book’s author, John Gray, the couple taught participants about differences between men and women that foster misunderstandings — despite good intentions. Participants learned about the surprisingly different ways that men and women will interpret the same verbal message. They also learned about stark differences between the kind of gestures and feedback that are most valued by men and women. By acknowledging these fundamental differences and working with them, the presenters demonstrated how miscommunications can be avoided.

Other seminars were enlightening. One seminar focused on nutrition and challenged participants to test their "nutrition IQ." One program focused on proper stretching techniques for flexibility. Another hands-on demonstration allowed women to learn about assault awareness. A panel from the DC Emergency Management Agency taught participants about disaster preparedness.

Employees could also learn more about the status of their own health through a number of free health screenings — measurements for blood pressure, glaucoma, back health, bone density, and body composition were available.

While this was the first Safety and Health Day of its kind at NASA, the agency knows emphasizing safety and health in a way that is educational and fun is a good investment. Experiencing the success of this program has inspired staff to plan another innovative program for next year.