Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD) was first established three years ago by the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA). This year it is taking place on the 13th July, and it aims to use social media to celebrate the lift industry by using #GLAD2023. Information about apprenticeships, technology, sustainability and diversity is available on their website and social media activity.

Ross Moloney, CEO at LEEA, said: “Ultimately, we’re trying to change behaviour, so pivoting towards owners, inspectors, examiners, and end users is key to achieving that. Social media postings are important, and we know that they are effective in giving people reason to pause, but this isn’t a movement confined to the virtual world; we need to do more to help people along their journey of conversion.”

He added: “Most of us in the industry know where to look for guidance, and where to go for advice, but users that have only a passing understanding of lifting—they might only rent, or buy, or use it occasionally—likely need more support to understand the risks and how to mitigate them better. This is a demographic continuously prone to accidents if we don’t position our safety messages where they’re needed most.”

LEEA has invited all those interested in or involved with the lift industry to contribute by participating on social media and holding events that serve as hubs from where the concept can grow in future years.

Click here to find out more about how to get involved.