Forty-two Kentucky employers were recognized for workplace safety and health excellence at the annual Governor's Safety and Health Conference in Owensboro, according to the Kentucky Education and Workforce Cabinet.

The award recipients collectively logged more than 38.6 million consecutive hours on the job between June 1, 2025, and May 30, 2026, without experiencing an occupational injury or illness resulting in lost time, according to the announcement.

The Governor's Safety and Health Awards Program, administered by the Education and Labor Cabinet's Division of Education and Training — known as KYSAFE — recognizes Kentucky employers who demonstrate outstanding workplace safety and health performance. Award recipients are selected based on injury and illness records maintained and verified under the Kentucky Occupational Safety and Health Program.

"Kentucky's historic economic momentum would not be possible without our incredible workforce," Gov. Andy Beshear said. "These hardworking Kentuckians deserve to know they are safe at their job and able to return to their families each day."

The awards represent part of a broader state commitment to workplace safety. For more than four decades, the Kentucky Safety and Health Network Inc. has partnered with the Education and Labor Cabinet to host the annual conference and exposition dedicated to occupational safety and health awareness.

Award winners may elect to receive their awards at ceremonies at their worksites or during the annual Governor's Safety and Health Conference. The award itself is a certificate mounted on a wooden plaque and signed by the governor, the secretary of the Education and Labor Cabinet, and the commissioner of the Department of Workplace Standards.