Changwon, South Korea – Gyeongnam Province has honored five companies for their exceptional efforts in preventing industrial accidents in 2024. The province announced the winners of its annual safety award on December 30th.

Now in its second year, the Gyeongnam Industrial Accident Prevention Excellence Award recognizes small and medium-sized enterprises with 5 to 50 employees that have demonstrated a strong commitment to workplace safety. The winning companies underwent a rigorous selection process, including document review, on-site assessments by safety experts, and a final evaluation by the Gyeongnam Industrial Accident Prevention Committee.

The five companies honored this year are Hyundai Enterprise, Korea Industry, Geno Line, Seongwoo Precision, and Youngnam Heat Treatment. These companies have implemented various safety measures, such as installing safety equipment, providing safety training, and establishing robust safety management systems. They have also prioritized employee safety by actively involving management and developing comprehensive safety plans.

Hyundai Enterprise, a lift component manufacturer in Haman, has been proactively managing near-miss incidents and implementing corrective actions to prevent accidents. Korea Industry, an auto and construction machinery parts heat treatment company in Sacheon, has adopted smart safety equipment, a rare practice among small businesses. The company has also achieved ISO 45001 certification and been recognized as an excellent risk assessment site by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Corporation.

Geno Line, a building interior and wooden furniture manufacturer in Gimhae, has focused on customized safety management. The company conducts daily safety meetings with all employees and organizes emergency drills and safety campaigns to enhance safety awareness. Seongwoo Precision, a mold manufacturing company in Changwon, has conducted risk assessments tailored to its operations and implemented safety equipment mandates, achieving a zero-accident record. Youngnam Heat Treatment, a metal product heat treatment company in Gimhae, has established a comprehensive safety management system to address hazardous substances, including environmental monitoring, special health checkups, and risk assessments for each process.

The winning companies will receive certificates, plaques, and preferential support for small and medium-sized enterprise development funds. The awards ceremony will be held at the Safety and Health Leaders' Meeting in February.

Cheon Seong-bong, head of the Provincial Safety Headquarters, stated, "Gyeongnam Province will continue to promote the Industrial Accident Prevention Excellence Award to identify and disseminate best practices, striving to create a safe Gyeongnam free from major accidents."