The National Safety Council honored six individuals with the Distinguished Service to Safety Award, the highest award given to safety professionals by the Council. Recipients were honored at the opening session of the 2024 NSC Safety Congress & Expo in Orlando, the largest annual gathering of safety and health professionals worldwide.
Candidates were nominated by both the general public and NSC members, and reviewed by NSC Division Committees. The following individuals were selected for recognition this year:
Alfred Chinbuah, Managing Director, Fire Safety Consulting Services Ltd.
His significant impact on health and safety in the mining industry over his 33-year career is marked by numerous achievements and contributions that have defined the landscape for safety management. His long-term dedication has helped curb the spate of incidents that previously characterized the industry.
Mike Hill, Safety Director, Performance Contracting Group
Throughout his career, Hill has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in safety. Currently, he oversees a team of over 10,000 employees, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Mei Li Lin, PhD, Senior Vice President, Digital Services and Strategic Partnership, Dekra Insight
Dr. Mei Li Lin’s career is a testament to her visionary leadership, global impact and commitment to improving workplace safety. Her contributions have left a lasting legacy in the field of occupational safety and health and include the development of the Campbell Institute at the National Safety Council, where her leadership established it as a leading authority on environmental, health and safety (EHS) practices.
Barry K. Logan, PhD, Senior Vice President & Chief Scientist, National Medical Services, Inc.
Through his leadership, research, education and policy influence, Dr. Logan has made substantial and lasting contributions to the field of forensic toxicology, significantly advancing public safety and reducing harm from drugs and alcohol. He has been a pivotal figure in forensic toxicology for 34 years, driving advancements in the detection, quantitation and interpretation of drugs, alcohol and poisons. His work has been crucial in legal matters, particularly those involving injury and death.
Kathy A. Seabrook, Founder, CEO, Global Solutions, Inc.
Through her leadership, educational efforts and strategic advisory roles, Seabrook has advanced the field of occupational health and safety, influencing safety practices and culture across various industries and regions worldwide. Her contributions have led to improved organizational health and safety management systems, ultimately reducing injury rates and enhancing overall corporate performance and sustainability.
Daniel Snyder, EdD, Safety Scientist and Philosopher, Safety Mentor, LLC
Dr. Daniel Snyder has dedicated over 30 years to enhancing the field of occupational safety and health. His impact spans mentorship, research, standards development and leadership within professional organizations. He has mentored thousands of EHS professionals, helping them develop skills in risk assessment, problem-solving, communication and leadership, and his influence is reflected in the personal and professional growth of many safety professionals who regard him as a pivotal figure in their careers.
“The prestigious Distinguished Service to Safety Awards honor the unique, individual efforts made by those who value safety above all else,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC president and CEO. “Each honoree has helped make our world a safer place. By honoring their achievements, we can set the bar for what’s possible and inspire others to pursue our shared goal of eliminating preventable deaths and injuries.”
The Distinguished Service to Safety Award was first presented in 1942 to recognize individuals and companies who significantly supported U.S. workers during World War II by reducing occupational injuries. For more information about the Distinguished Service to Safety Award, as well as other NSC awards, visit nsc.org/awards.