DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS (July 11, 2001) -- Based in St. Petersberg, the West Florida Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) presented the ASSE Foundation with a $500 check to advance safety and health development and research and education in the public interest.

Funding for the Foundation comes from corporations and ASSE members - individual and through chapters countrywide. It was reported at the annual ASSE conference in June that the total number of ASSE members supporting the Foundation has increased by 25 percent over the past four years.

The increase in support of the Foundation comes at a critical time. Federal agencies such as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are reporting a drop in the number of students entering the field of occupational safety and health while the need for the expertise is on the rise nationally and internationally.

Through its programs the ASSEF is committed to ensuring the future of the occupational safety and health profession by providing financial resources to individuals and organizations. Each year the Foundation awards funds for applied safety research, scholarships, fellowships, internships and professional development. Applications for these awards are available on-line at www.asse.org/foundat.htm

Founded in 1911, ASSE is the oldest and largest professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property, and the environment. Its 32,000 members manage, supervise, and consult on safety, health, and environmental issues in industry, insurance, government and education. www.asse.org.