The National Officer Safety and Wellness (OSW) Group brings together representatives from law enforcement, federal agencies, and the research community to address the significantly high number of officer gunfire fatalities and to improve officer safety and wellness. During quarterly meetings, participants contribute to the creation of officer safety and wellness tools and resources.

The OSW Group hopes to encourage the adoption of cultures of safety and wellness among the nation’s law enforcement agencies. The goals of the group are:

• To create an opportunity and environment for law enforcement organizations and researchers to collaborate on improving officer safety and wellness.
• To bring together law enforcement organizations and researchers to share knowledge and information about officer safety and wellness initiatives.
• To broadly disseminate information and best practices to the field through the government and law enforcement organizational communications mechanisms.

Over the years the OSWG has discussed these critical officer safety and wellness issues and produced a number of resources aimed to encourage the nation’s law enforcement agencies to adopt a culture that embraces the value of safety and wellness. The COPS Office and BJA continue to strive to provide agencies with the tools necessary to develop effective programs that address some of the most persistent and prevalent safety and wellness issues facing law enforcement officers today.

Publications and Links

Officer Safety and Wellness Group Meeting Summary: Pandemic Policing - Emerging Issues and Recommendations (July 2021)

Addressing Four OSW Pillars in Smaller and Rural Communities (March 2020)

Promoting Positive Coping Strategies in Law Enforcement: Emerging Issues and Recommendations (July 2019)

Less-Lethal Weaponry, Post-Traumatic Stress, and their Impact on Officer Safety and Wellness: Emerging Issues and Recommendations (November 2018)

Officers' Physical and Mental Health and Safety: Emerging Issues and Recommendations (April 2018)

Officer Health and Organizational Wellness: Emerging Issues and Recommendations (October 2017)

Improving Law Enforcement Resilience: Lessons and Recommendations (October 2016)

OSW Group Meeting Summary: Officer Safety and Wellness Forum (March 2016)

Safety and Health Information and Education for Law Enforcement Departments

OSW Group Meeting Summary: Psychological Health (February 2013)

OSW Group Meeting Summary: Leadership, Creating a Culture of Safety (September 2012)

Vehicle Operation, Risk Management, and Problem-based Learning (April 2012)

OSW Group Meeting Summary: Officer Deaths and Injuries from Gunfire (January 2012)

OSW Group Meeting Summary: An Overview of the Issues (September 2011)