The National Safety Council recognizes outstanding advances in safety throughout the year through a variety of award programs – among the most prestigious are the Green Cross for Safety® Awards. Nominees and recipients demonstrate alignment with the NSC mission of saving lives from the workplace to anyplace.
The NSC Green Cross Safety Advocate, Safety Excellence, and Safety Innovation.
Green Cross for Safety Advocate
This award recognizes a community partnership, individual or coalition that has made a significant impact on a safety issue by advocating for proven or promising practices to raise awareness or change policy to prevent further injuries and deaths.
Nominations for Safety Advocate should have:
- Focused on change in one key area of safety
- Advocated for the use of evidence-based practices in their sphere of influence. If working with a promising practice, nominee should have helped evaluate the practice’s effectiveness.
- Succeeded in influencing change, such as changing legislation or behavior
- Planned for future advocacy in the chosen area
- Recognized its transferability and planned steps to share with others
Green Cross for Safety Excellence
This award recognizes a corporation, coalition or organization that was relentless in its pursuit of safety.
Nominees in Safety Excellence should have:
- Identified an obstacle to eliminating preventable deaths or injuries
- Developed a solution to the problem identified
- Implemented the solution with significant measurable results
- Evaluated the solution and planned next steps
- Recognized its value to the safety community and planned steps to share with others
Green Cross for Safety Innovation
This award recognizes a researcher, corporation, or organization that has achieved success addressing a long-held challenge in safety with a new or novel approach.
Nominees in Safety Innovation should have:
- Identified a long held obstacle to eliminating preventable injuries or deaths
- Developed a transformative approach to the problem identified
- Reviewed, researched or implemented the solution with significant measurable results
- Evaluated lessons learned and made recommendations for next steps for the approach
- Recognized its value to the safety community and planned steps to share with others
NSC launched the Rising Stars of Safety in 2010 to highlight the achievements of the best safety professionals under the age of 40.
The Rising Stars of Safety is designed to reward those individuals who have a current role in safety, and have influenced their company’s safety culture and safety leadership. Companies are encouraged to nominate multiple candidates, but only one honoree per company can be chosen.
To be eligible for nomination, the nominee:
- Must have been nominated by another
- Can be based anywhere in the world
- Must be under 40 years old as of October 31 of the receiving year
The criteria that will be used in evaluating nominations may include, but not be limited to:
- Demonstrated leadership
- Led a safety initiative with measurable results
- Engaged his or her peers around safety culture
- Demonstrated a personal belief in safety to business operations
The National Safety Council may choose to recognize any number of Rising Stars of Safety in any given year. No one individual will win the award more than one time. Historically, the Rising Stars of Safety have been viewed as a “40 under 40” style award.
When considering a potential nominee, it is important to consider the following:
- Self-nominations are not accepted
- Nominators should spend time early in the process discussing the nomination process with the NSC Award Manager, who can serve as a coach.
- Successful nominations include measurable, detailed descriptions and examples. Often, this means using a majority of the space available.
- The nominator’s obligation to the nominee and the process includes preparing a professional nomination package. A nominator may inform and engage the nominee in preparing this submission.
- Powerful, successful nominations are crisp in form, clear, neat, organized and not encumbered with extraneous information and endorsements.
- All nominations must be submitted through the online application with all required fields complete. No other documents will be accepted in lieu of the online form.
- Nominators must never assure a nominee that the award is theirs without the approval of the NSC Award Committee.
Nominations must be made through third parties; self-nominations will not be eligible. All eligible Rising Stars nominees must have at least one and no more than three letters of recommendation. A complete resume is required as part of the submission.
Final nominations must be submitted online -- Tuesday March 31, 2026.
Safety For All Scholarship Application
The National Safety Council envisions building a workforce of occupational, safety and health professionals that represent all of the cultures and ethnicities represented in the workforce. Recognizing that safety leaders are critical to ensuring worker health and wellbeing, NSC is committed to building a strong workforce of safety professionals through the NSC scholarship program. The Safety for All Scholarship expands access to education and support for students pursuing degrees in occupational health and safety or related STEM fields and other relevant majors. Scholars receive a $5,000 tuition award, as well as complimentary registration and travel accommodations to attend the NSC Safety Congress & Expo.
Application and Selection
To be considered, applications must be fully completed and submitted online. At least one and up to three letters of recommendation must be submitted with the application Finalists will be notified in the Spring of 2026.
- Finalists will be asked for additional information, verification of claims and to supply transcripts
- Finalists must pass a media review
NSC staff and volunteers will have access to the information provided on all applications
Award Information
- Recipient will receive a check in the amount of $5,000, payable to the university/college
- The $5,000 award may be prorated if the recipient is not a full-time student
- Recipient must sign an acceptance agreement stipulating use of funds for tuition
For more information about the NSC Congress & Expo, visit 2026 NSC Safety Congress & Expo
NSC Student Members NSC student membership opportunities are made possible through funding by the National Safety Council and its members. Click here to join NSC as a student member; there is no cost for membership. If you are a current student member and need assistance, contact CustomerCare@nsc.org or call 800-621-7619. If you are unable to become a student member because you have not yet been accepted into a program, please contact scholarship@nsc.org for assistance.
About the NSC Safety Congress & Expo Scholarship The NSC Safety Congress & Expo is the world's premier annual safety event, bringing together 15,000 safety, health, and environmental professionals from various industries. The 2026 NSC Safety Congress & Expo will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana -- Sept. 13-16. All scholarship recipients will be provided the opportunity to attend at no cost, with access to technical sessions, keynote addresses, an Expo of over 1,000 companies, and networking events. This is an invaluable opportunity for scholarship recipients to meet and learn from thousands of safety and health professionals. For more information about the NSC Congress & Expo, visit congress.nsc.org.
Click here for more detailed information about this scholarship.
NSC Student Members: NSC student membership opportunities are made possible through funding by the National Safety Council and its members. Click here to join NSC as a student member; there is no cost for membership. If you are a current student member and need assistance, contact CustomerCare@nsc.org or call 800-621-7619. If you are unable to become a student member because you have not yet been accepted into a program, please contact scholarship@nsc.org for assistance.
The Distinguished Service to Safety Award (DSSA) is the most prestigious award given to individuals by the National Safety Council in recognition of outstanding service and contribution in the field of safety. The NSC Awards Committee has established the following guidelines to facilitate the nomination process for this award program.
Scope: The DSSA is designed to reward those individuals who have had a sustained impact on safety on a local, national, or international scope. The nature of the contribution should reflect exceptional service resulting in more effective or increased levels of injury and/or illness prevention, or assistance in furtherance of those goals. This may also include advancement of safety theory and research.
Nominees:
- Will be considered from members and nonmembers of NSC
- Eligible nominees will have at least twenty years of experience in a safety related field
- Active engagement in safety, either paid or unpaid, within the past five years
- Retirees are eligible to be nominated, within two year of their retirement
Criteria:
- Made impact on safety (international, national or local). Impact can include affecting culture change around safety within an organization or locale; developing and implementing safety protocols previously lacking in an organization or industry; or public campaigns or advocacy with measurable success in affecting safety awareness and individual behavior.
- Made significant and outstanding contributions to safety. Contributions can include innovations, research, or other academic pursuits impacting safety.
Nominator Guidance: When considering a potential nominee, it is important to consider the following:
- Self-nominations are not permitted
- The nominator’s obligation to the nominee and the process includes preparing a professional nomination package. A nominator may inform and engage the nominee in preparing this.
- Powerful, successful nominations are crisp in form, clear, neat, organized and not encumbered with extraneous information and endorsements.
- All nominations must be submitted through the online application with all required fields complete. No other documents will be accepted in lieu of the online form.
- Nominators must never assure a nominee that the award is theirs without the approval of the NSC Award Committee.
- All eligible DSSA nominees must have at least one and no more than three letters of recommendation.
- All criteria must be supported with metrics and appropriate documentation.
Deadline: Final nominations must be submitted online by March 31, 2026.
To learn more about this award, click here.
To submit for this award, please log in and/or create a submittable.com account.
The Dotson Safety Leadership Award
About the Award
The Dotson Safety Leadership Award recognizes one exceptional Certified Safety Professional under age 40 who is shaping the future of workplace safety through leadership, innovation, and ethical excellence. Established through the Kyle B. Dotson Endowment, this $10,000 award honors mid-career professionals making significant impact in the field. Recipients receive national recognition and access to NSC events and professional development opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Dotson Safety Leadership Award, candidates must:
- Be under age 40 as of January 1, 2026
This award recognizes mid‑career professionals—established safety practitioners who have proven their impact and are ready to lead at the next level.
- Hold a valid BCSP Certified Safety Professional (CSP) credential.
- Be a currently practicing Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) professional.
- Be employed in any sector except government
- Not currently serving on any NSC committees involved in award decisions.
Award Details
- $10,000 unrestricted financial award
- Recognition at the NSC Congress & Expo
- Featured in NSC communications and professional networks
- Ongoing access to NSC learning and leadership opportunities
Application Requirements
Candidates may not nominate themselves. Each application must include nominator contact information. Candidates must complete the online application form and upload the following materials:
a. Professional Experience and Credentials
- Updated CV or résumé
- Confirmation of BCSP credential in good standing
b. Personal Statement (500–750 words)
- Describe your commitment to safety leadership and how you are advancing the field.
- Include examples of innovation, collaboration, and impact in your work.
- Include the most outstanding achievements of your safety career.
c. Leadership in the Profession
- Evidence of contributions to the safety community through:
- Volunteerism
- Outreach
- Mentorship
- Best practice development
d. Recognition & Awards
- List of professional honors, certifications, recognitions or milestones relevant to safety.
e. Colleague Support (Three Required Letters of Recommendation)
Letters must come from individuals who:
- Have direct professional knowledge of the applicant.
- One of the three should be submitted by the nominator.
Nominator Guidance
When considering a potential nominee for the Dotson Safety Leadership Award, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Self‑nominations are not permitted. Each application must include the nominator’s name and contact information.
- Three letters of recommendation are required. The nominator is expected to provide one of the three letters. Letters should come from individuals who can speak directly to the nominee’s leadership, character, and professional impact.
- Nominators may inform and support the nominee in preparing the application. However, the nominee is responsible for completing and submitting the online application form and uploading all required materials.
- Strong nominations are focused, well‑organized, and meaningful. Submissions should emphasize the nominee’s leadership, contributions to safety, and ethical excellence—without excessive endorsements or unrelated content.
- Evidence of impact and leadership is important. When appropriate, nominators and nominees should reference clear examples, measurable outcomes, or indicators of growth within the safety profession.
- All applications must be submitted through the online portal with all required fields completed. Paper or emailed submissions will not be accepted.
- Nominators should not imply or guarantee selection. Final award decisions are made by the NSC review committee and selection panel.
Deadline: Final nominations must be submitted online by April 6, 2026.
The NSC Marion Martin Award was established in 2016 to recognize and celebrate outstanding service and contributions in the field of safety by women and those who support women in the field of safety. The NSC Awards Committee has established the following guidelines to facilitate the nomination process for this award program.
Purpose: The purpose of the NSC Marion Martin Award is to recognize women and others who have achieved professional excellence within their area of specialty and have helped pave the way to success for other women in the profession. These women have distinguished themselves in a variety of professional settings and personify excellence on either the local, regional, national or international level.
Scope: The NSC Marion Martin Award is designed to reward those who have had a significant impact on other women in the safety field. This award is designed to celebrate the career of women and others who have not only achieved professional excellence, but did so while encouraging other women to pursue a career in safety.
Eligibility: To be eligible for nomination, the nominee must be a woman or anyone who supports women in the field of safety, and may not be an active National Safety Council staff member, or member of the NSC Women’s Division Leadership Committee.
Deadline: Final nominations must be submitted online by March 31, 2026.
Click here to learn more about this award.
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- 2026 Texas Our Driving Concern Employer Traffic Safety Awards Nomination Form
This award recognizes Texas employers who have demonstrated a commitment to transportation and driver safety that promotes a culture that actively promotes traffic safety on and off the job.
Employers who have created or implemented driving safety solutions and practices, programs or policies should apply for this award. Areas of focus may include any aspect of transportation safety targeted at employees, the employees families, the community and contractors.
GUIDELINES:
Applicants / Texas employers will be judged on the basis of what their company is doing in terms of their driver safety program and transportation safety education and outreach within their company's safety culture focusing on driver behavior. Each business application will be reviewed individually based on merit. Consistent and on-going as well as on and off the job considerations are key components.
ELIGIBILITY:
- Any Texas employer is eligible regardless of company type or size.
- Nominated company must have operations in Texas.
- Nominator does not have to be an employee of the company being nominated.
- Previous award recipients are eligible for nomination.
DEADLINE:
Applications must be submitted by January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST
AWARD CATEGORIES:
- Distinguished Excellence in Traffic Safety
- Excellence in Traffic Safety
- Innovative Practices in Traffic Safety
- Workforce Engagement in Traffic Safety
- Small Employer Excellence in Traffic Safety
BEST PRACTICES: Award recipients exemplify the highest standards of achievement in employee education and outreach related to traffic safety and driver behavior. Their programs serve as models for Texas employers who are developing or enhancing their own workplace traffic safety initiatives.
In the spirit of sharing best practices, nominated organizations agree that the National Safety Council and the Our Driving Concern program may use submitted information in future promotional materials, both online and in print.
2026 Ohio Our Driving Concern Employer Traffic Safety Awards Nomination Form This award recognizes Ohio employers who have demonstrated a commitment to transportation and driver safety that promotes a culture that actively promotes traffic safety on and off the job.
Employers who have created or implemented driving safety solutions and practices, programs or policies should apply for this award. Areas of focus may include any aspect of transportation safety targeted at employees, the employees families, the community and contractors. GUIDELINES: Applicants / Ohio employers will be judged on the basis of what their company is doing in terms of their driver safety program and transportation safety education and outreach within their company's safety culture focusing on driver behavior. Each business application will be reviewed individually based on merit. Consistent and on-going as well as on and off the job considerations are key components. ELIGIBILITY:
- Any Ohio employer is eligible regardless of company type or size.
- Nominated company must have operations in Ohio.
- Nominator does not have to be an employee of the company being nominated.
- Previous award recipients are eligible for nomination.
DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted by January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST
AWARD CATEGORIES:
- Distinguished Excellence in Traffic Safety
- Excellence in Traffic Safety
- Innovative Practices in Traffic Safety
- Workforce Engagement in Traffic Safety
- Small Employer Excellence in Traffic Safety
BEST PRACTICES: Award recipients exemplify the highest standards of achievement in employee education and outreach related to traffic safety and driver behavior. Their programs serve as models for Ohio employers who are developing or enhancing their own workplace traffic safety initiatives.
In the spirit of sharing best practices, nominated organizations agree that the National Safety Council and the Our Driving Concern program may use submitted information in future promotional materials, both online and in print.
2026 North Carolina Our Driving Concern Employer Traffic Safety Awards Nomination Form
This award recognizes North Carolina employers who have demonstrated a commitment to transportation and driver safety that promotes a culture that actively promotes traffic safety on and off the job.
Employers who have created or implemented driving safety solutions and practices, programs or policies should apply for this award. Areas of focus may include any aspect of transportation safety targeted at employees, the employees families, the community and contractors. GUIDELINES:
Applicants / North Carolina employers will be judged on the basis of what their company is doing in terms of their driver safety program and transportation safety education and outreach within their company's safety culture focusing on driver behavior. Each business application will be reviewed individually based on merit. Consistent and on-going as well as on and off the job considerations are key components. ELIGIBILITY:
- Any North Carolina employer is eligible regardless of company type or size.
- Nominated company must have operations in North Carolina.
- Nominator does not have to be an employee of the company being nominated.
- Previous award recipients are eligible for nomination.
DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted by January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST
AWARD CATEGORY: Excellence in Traffic Safety
BEST PRACTICES: Award recipients exemplify the highest standards of achievement in employee education and outreach related to traffic safety and driver behavior. Their programs serve as models for North Carolina employers who are developing or enhancing their own workplace traffic safety initiatives.
In the spirit of sharing best practices, nominated organizations agree that the National Safety Council and the Our Driving Concern program may use submitted information in future promotional materials, both online and in print.
The National Safety Council (NSC) recognizes and celebrates individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence and create meaningful IMPACT in advancing progress toward a future with zero deaths. Their contributions include delivering high‑quality defensive driving programs, providing critical workplace safety training, and offering life‑saving First Aid instruction.
NSC is now accepting applications for award in the following areas:
The Instructor of the Year Awards. The IOTY Awards recognizes Defensive Driving instructors who go above and beyond their daily duties to build a culture and vision for safety and achieve excellence in safety for their communities.
The winning safety professionals will be selected by members of various awards committee members including the DDC International Advisory Committee — safety consultants and professionals who are leading experts in the field.
Winners will be announced in the summer, and the awards will be mailed out in the fall. Instructor of the Year Awards will be presented at a ceremony at the 2026 Safety Congress & Expo, Indianapolis- September 11-17, 2026
You can nominate a colleague or yourself for an award.
Deadline: April 17, 2026