Hollis Emerson

The year 2002 marked a significant milestone in the life of Ray Hartgrave as the end of the season brought about his retirement.

On April 4, 2002, Wendling Quarries had a training seminar at DeWitt with the I.D.O.T. relating to safety regulations and hazmat endorsements. Two officers provided training and had a question and answer period. Our safety department people, Dan Darland and Jenny Wagh, organized the meeting and answered questions.

All lowboy drivers and managers were asked to attend. Some very good questions and concerns were raised.

A follow-up meeting was held in the afternoon to address company policy and procedures. A guideline list of our heavy equipment dimensions was handed out to help our drivers with double-checking their permits for the correct information. All used permits are to be returned to Alan in the DeWitt office for any needed changes. All portable crews were given equipment to check lights and brake functions before the moving crew shows up, so repairs can be made before moving day. The crews were also requested to use their water trucks to clean off their plants before moving. The superintendents were asked to run plant fuel down, if possible, to help with weight and more importantly possible spillage.

A Wendling Company Motor Vehicle Record/Review System was also started. This system is very similar to the one Manatt’s started last year. The new system is for any employee that drives a Wendling vehicle. One reason for this program was our new insurance carrier wanted a grading criteria. As anyone who has dealt with insurance knows, getting insured, and getting insured for a rate that is competitive, is extremely difficult. The mission and goal of these changes is the same for all of us - to be accident and violation free!

Our drivers and equipment are among some of the best. If we continue to communicate and work together as a team we will get to the place we all want to be - leading the way with a safe and accident free department and company.

Thanks to all for what we consider to be a culture change at Wendling Quarries!