The Council is data driven, relying on research to inform best practice solutions to safety issues. To make the greatest impact, NSC focuses on where the most preventable injuries and deaths occur - cell phone use while driving, teen driving, workplace safety, prescription painkiller use and safety in the community. As a catalyst for behavior change, NSC promotes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month and June as National Safety Month.

Acknowledged as the go-to source for safety, NSC provides a variety of educational opportunities – many through NSC University – including First Aid, Workplace Safety and Driver Safety courses, and is a leading source of occupational safety information through Safety+Health® magazine. The NSC Congress & Expo brings together the world's largest annual gathering of safety professionals. Through the Safe Communities America program, NSC certifies communities with rigorous safety initiatives.

The Campbell Institute at the Council is the global center of excellence for environmental, health and safety and collaborates with top performing organizations to share research and best practices widely across industries. The Council recognizes organizations that have focused on safety as a critical part of their operations with the prestigious Robert W. Campbell Award®

Celebrating significant safety achievements, NSC presents the Green Cross for Safety® award for safety excellence, innovation and advocacy. The highest safety recognition for individuals is the Council's Distinguished Service to Safety Awards, given annually.

NSC uses the concept of the Journey to Safety Excellence® as a roadmap for organizations to continuously improve their safety practice to ensure zero harm. A 501c3 nonprofit, chartered by Congress with local Chapters and global networks, and more than 50,000 members, NSC is committed to helping keep people safe wherever they are.​"