May 27 2020
By: Terry L. Mathis
Most of us involved in EHS started off spending most of our time on the "S," then focused more on the "E" as environmental issues moved to the forefront. Until now, the "H" was a distant third runner. We may have sponsored wellness programs or paid for gym memberships, but the EHS professional did not spend a proportionate amount of time on these types of issues.
In comes COVID-19 and all this is rapidly changing. Many safety professionals spent more time addressing the virus recently than any other priority. As we emerge from the crisis stage of this pandemic, the virus will remain, and EHS professionals will find the "H" part of their job more significant than it has been in the past. 
This invisible risk will become a permanent part of our prevention efforts, and our ability to innovate solutions will be tested in new ways. Now, more than ever, EHS professionals need to innovate rather than rely on past methodologies. As Einstein told us, "Yesterday's thinking will not solve tomorrow's problems."
Terry Mathis, Founder and retired CEO of ProAct Safety, has served as a consultant and advisor for top organizations the world over. A respected strategist and thought leader, Terry has authored five books, numerous articles, videos and blogs, and is known for his dynamic and engaging presentations. EHS Today has named him one of the '50 People Who Most Influenced EHS' four consecutive times. Business leaders and safety professionals seek Terry's practical insight and unique ability to introduce new perspectives that lead to real change.
