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A truck driver uses tie-downs to secure cargo on his flatbed trailer.

Drive safe: Secure the load

Each year, unsecured loads cause about 730 deaths and 17,000 injuries when cargo shifts or falls onto roadways, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These cargo securement tips can prevent injuries and deaths.

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Kalyn Siebert training classes

Kalyn Siebert puts safety in motion

Kalyn Siebert, a Gatesville-based manufacturer of custom-engineered heavy-haul trailers, proves that safety drives success. After earning the Lone Star Safety Award earlier this year for its strong safety program and commitment to employee well-being, the company received a special benefit from the award — free on-site OSHA 10-Hour General Industry training provided by DWC Workplace Safety Training and Inspections Manager Raymond Provencio.

The Lone Star Safety Award offers more than recognition. It invests in workplaces that make safety a priority. Benefits include free training, complimentary registration for the annual Texas Workers’ Compensation Conference, public and legislative recognition, and opportunities to serve on safety panels or mentor other organizations.

Do you know a company that goes above and beyond to keep its employees safe? Nominate them for the Lone Star Safety Award and help recognize excellence in Texas workplace safety. Download an application, call 512-804-4665, or visit the Lone Star Safety Award webpage.


The words, "OSHA Safety Training" appear beside a man working on equipment in an industrial setting.

Last chance for 2025 OSHA training: Enroll now!

Time is running out to complete your OSHA training before the year ends. DWC is offering its final 2025 classes in Construction and General Industry—both in English and Spanish—at locations across Texas in December. Whether you need the OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour courses, these interactive, instructor-led sessions are designed to help you recognize hazards, increase your safety awareness, and comply with OSHA standards.

Seats fill fast, so secure your spot now:

OSHA 10-Hour Construction – free

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry – $30

OSHA 30-Hour Construction – $30

Participants receive an official OSHA completion card six to eight weeks after successful course completion. All attendees must be Texas residents or employed in Texas and communicate in the course language.

Don’t wait! Register today and make sure you end 2025 with the certification you need.

"Register now!" button

A woman in a Santa hat holding a first aid kit stands beside the words, "Give the Gift of Safety: Be First Aid Ready!"

First aid preparedness: A holiday season safety priority

During the holiday season, many workplaces face heavier workloads, tighter schedules, and more distractions. Temporary or seasonal workers may not know all the safety rules yet, and regular staff can be tired or stressed from the busy pace. These factors increase the chances of accidents such as slips and falls, overexertion, or electrical hazards from decorations. Quick action can make all the difference when an injury happens.

Knowing basic first aid helps employees act fast before medical help arrives. It can prevent serious injuries, improve recovery, and show that your workplace values safety year-round.

Take action now:

  • Offer or schedule first aid and CPR training for all employees, including new and temporary staff.
  • Check first aid kits to ensure they’re easy to find, fully stocked, and clearly labeled.
  • Review what can be treated on-site and when to call for emergency care.
  • Remind staff of emergency supply and contact locations.
  • Discuss potential holiday hazards during staff meetings.

If your company would like to schedule first aid or CPR training, contact SafetyTraining@tdi.texas.gov or call 512-804-4610. Seats are limited.

You can also download our free first aid publications:

You don’t need to be a paramedic to save a life — just prepared. Make first aid training part of your workplace holiday safety plan.


Office cubicle display holiday wreaths above the words, "Deck the Halls -- Safely!"

Holiday decorating tips for the workplace

As the holidays approach and offices start decorating, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. Use this checklist to help keep your workplace festive and safe:

  • Choose flame-resistant decorations: Avoid real trees, candles, and other flammable items.
  • Keep exits and safety equipment clear: Don’t block fire doors, alarms, extinguishers, or sprinklers.
  • Inspect electrical items before use: Check for damaged wires, use only UL-listed lights, and unplug before leaving. Don’t overload extension cords.
  • Use ladders properly: Never stand on chairs or desks to hang decorations; follow ladder safety rules.
  • Keep walkways free of clutter: Don’t place cords or decorations where people walk or work.

For more information, download one of DWC’s holiday safety publications:

Or stream a holiday safety video on DWC’s Workplace Safety Videos webpage.

A little holiday cheer goes a long way — just make sure safety shines as bright as your holiday spirit.