Welcome to 2021, best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year! The year 2020 has certainly presented us with a plethora of new challenges. With the distribution of the Covid-19 vaccine and a controversial national election behind us, 2021 shows excellent signs of better days ahead. With certainty, 2021 will bring its own set of challenges since the prospect of returning to pre-Covid “normal” is next to nil.
But rather than dwell on the past, let’s take stock of the good that was gained. We now have a better knowledge and understanding on how to use the various digital tools to our advantage, which offer many opportunities as we move forward. In a sense our worlds have expanded as we experienced how to interact with a greater community, local now has a new meaning as persons around the world can join us in our virtual activities. This provides a greatly expanded audience for us to influence with the importance of safety in our lives.
Health, safety, security all have new meaning as these have become daily household concerns. The general public now has a greater appreciation for the importance of these concerns, something that we can leverage as the leaders and experts in these fields. Just think of the term PPE and what it meant to the average person a year ago compared to today, what an awakening.
We still have a lot of work ahead of us. A concern that is ever increasing during these periods of “lock-downs” and isolation is mental health. These concerns increase with each passing day. First, let’s check ourselves, those who take care of others in these trying times, don’t forget we all have families and social pressures as well. We cannot help others if we are not well ourselves. When help is needed, ask for it. Keep an eye on coworkers, family members and our communities, when something doesn’t seem right, it usually is a sign of concern. There are avenues for help available around us, let’s make good use of them,
For the new members of the Chapter, a hardy welcome. You are coming on board at a great time. Whether you are new to this field or a seasoned professional, you will find a cornucopia of resources here for you. The more you participate, the more you will gain. So, consider volunteering for a committee, community or group of your interest. We all work together to make this Society and Chapter a success.
To our loyal Chapter membership, who have weathered the storm of 2020, a sincere thank you for forging ahead and making our chapter a continuing success. I’m looking forward to a great 2021.
James F Kane (Jim)
Chesapeake Chapter President
American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)