International Workers’ Day – May 1

May 1 is International Workers’ Day and a celebration of the international labor movement. Although May Day is celebrated in many countries with various themes, in the United States, it is the commemoration of the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, where laborers went on strike for the eight-hour workday.

In Albany, a number of activities are planned, including a march for immigrants’ rights, a justice for janitors picket and a solidarity march. If you would like more information on these events, go to www.occupyalbany.org

PEF participates in health care training conference

PEF members will be attending the 6^th annual Safe-Patient Handling Conference and a “Train the Trainer” program for clinical specialists beginning Tuesday, April 23 through Thursday, April 25 in Albany. This is a multi-union event designed to provide the latest information about ways to make workplaces safer for health care providers and their clients. Those attending will bring back information to members and materials from the dozens of vendors who participate this event.

2013 Health and Safety Conference designed to improve occupational wellness

The state of New York and PEF is holding its 2013 statewide Health and Safety Conference in Albany, Thursday April 18 through Saturday, April 20. This year’s theme is “A Call to Action.”

The conference brings together agency managers and union leaders to learn about emerging strategies for preventing occupational injuries and illnesses to impart with their employees. Both the state and union share the common goals of eliminating hazards in the workplace, reducing workers’ compensation costs, and the detrimental effects employee injuries have on state operations.

Participants will attend a variety of workshops such as accident investigations, occupational stress, emergency preparedness and health and safety communication for the membership using social media techniques.

If you would like more information about an occupational health and safety topic, contact a member of your agency’s health and safety committee.

PEF reviews state budget

PEF leaders continue to review the 2013-14 state budget and will keep a close eye on how it is affecting jobs and vital state services. For a thorough look at the budget and PEF’s concerns, visit the PEF website and clink on the message from President Susan Kent about being part of the solution. You can also find more information on the state budget in the April issue of the Communicator, which soon will be in your mailboxes.

Members can also find information on the website about the April 2013 Performance Awards and Performance Advances. If you have questions about your eligibility to receive an award, contact your PEF Field Representative.

Members are invited to ‘Disney Night’

If you ever wanted to go to Disney World, or would like more information about this magical kingdom, PEF Travel has a special night for you. On Wednesday, May 8, a Disney representative will describe what’s new and exciting at Disney World. Registration begins at 6 p.m. and the presentation follows at 6:30 p.m. The event includes light refreshments, door prizes, and if you book a vacation, free parking at Albany Park, Ride & Fly.

Disney Night is being held at PEF headquarters in Latham. If you would like to attend, please RSVP by calling (518) 782-9045 or send an email to peftravel@pef.org and include the number of guests who will attend.