February is recognized as American Heart Month, serving as an important reminder that heart health and overall wellness are essential components of workplace safety. At SAM, physical and mental health directly affect alertness, endurance, judgment, and reaction time—critical factors whether working in the field, driving, or performing office-based tasks. Taking care of our health is not only a personal responsibility but also a shared commitment to keeping ourselves and our coworkers safe.
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of serious health events in the United States. While some risk factors are outside our control, many are influenced by everyday habits. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce risk and improve overall quality of life. Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, proper hydration, adequate sleep, and avoiding tobacco products all play a role in supporting cardiovascular health. Even small changes—such as taking short walks, stretching before or after work, choosing healthier meal options, or reducing excess sodium and sugar—can have long-term benefits.
Stress management is another critical piece of both heart health and job safety. Work demands, schedules, weather conditions, travel, and personal responsibilities can create ongoing stress and fatigue. Over time, unmanaged stress may contribute to high blood pressure, sleep disruption, and reduced concentration, increasing the risk of mistakes, injuries, or incidents. Taking scheduled breaks, practicing deep breathing, staying connected with teammates, and communicating when workloads become overwhelming are important ways to manage stress and support a strong safety culture.
Fatigue is often overlooked but can be just as dangerous as other hazards. Poor sleep and exhaustion can slow reaction times, impair decision-making, and reduce situational awareness. Team members are encouraged to prioritize rest, recognize signs of fatigue, and speak up if they feel unfit for duty. Looking out for one another and addressing concerns early helps prevent incidents before they occur.
It is also important to recognize the warning signs of a heart-related emergency. Symptoms may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, unusual fatigue, or pain in the arm, back, neck, or jaw. These symptoms can vary from person to person and should never be ignored. If you or someone nearby experiences these signs, call 911 immediately. Quick action can save lives.
As we observe American Heart Month, SAM encourages employees, partners, and clients alike to take time to focus on overall health. Schedule regular medical checkups, follow healthcare recommendations, stay physically active, and make choices that support long-term wellness. A healthy workforce is a safer workforce, and each individual action contributes to a safer environment for everyone.