Occupational health and safety materials prepared by government and private industry are intended to produce desirable behavioral practices in the workplace, but their authors often lack training in basic principles of attitude and behavior change. A strategy for writing a message which will lead to action - A.C.T.I.R. - is presented based upon the findings of communication and educational research. Written materials incorporating A.C.T.I.R. principles can be effective in promoting health and safety in the workplace especially when combined with other strategies.