The Virginia Department of Labor & Industry (DOLI) has launched a workplace safety video competition aimed at encouraging young workers to recognise hazards, understand their rights and speak up about unsafe working conditions.
The initiative, titled “VOSH Vision: Your Voice. Your Safety”, is being delivered through the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) programme in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP).
Encouraging young workers to speak up
The competition invites participants to create original public service announcement videos promoting workplace safety awareness.
Entries should encourage workers to identify hazards, ask questions, report unsafe conditions and understand their workplace rights.
James Frederick, Commissioner, DOLI, said: “Safety messages often hit home harder when they come from peers who understand your experiences.
“Through our inaugural video contest, we want to inspire the next generation of workers to advocate for safe workplaces across the state. We want every Virginian, regardless of age, to return home safe and healthy at the end of every shift.”
Two competition categories announced
The contest features two divisions, each awarding first, second and third place prizes.
The High School Student Division is open to Virginia students in grades 9 to 12.
The Early Career Division welcomes Virginia residents within their first five years of full time employment, including apprentices, interns and recent graduates. Cash prizes range from $500 to $3,000.
Addressing risks facing younger employees
Monique Parker, President of ASSP, said: “The ASSP Foundation is honored to support this program to help students and early-career workers advance workplace safety across Virginia.
“Young workers are more likely to be injured on the job, often because they’re unfamiliar with hazards or hesitant to speak up. We hope this contest helps young people see that their voice matters and that speaking up can help prevent a serious injury or fatality.”
Entries open until February 2027
The inaugural competition is supported by the McElhattan Foundation.
Submissions are currently open, with a closing date of 28 February 2027.
Further information about eligibility requirements and submission guidelines is available through the ASSP Foundation website.
