Burt Ostert

Before we get into this new season that has “snuck” up on us, I would like to congratulate the Ready Mix plants that earned “Safety Awards” at the Ready Mix Convention in March.

Manatt’s Inc. had twenty plants that did not have a lost time injury or damage to a vehicle of $5000.00 or more. Our goal for this year is to qualify every plant for a “Safety Award” at the 2004 convention!

We also had our annual Leadership Safety Meeting in March. The Company Leaders were reminded of the importance of safety in the workplace and the important role they play in regards to their own and their employee’s safety. The various topics covered at the meeting were determined by the results of the employee survey that all employees were asked to complete last fall. The topics covered were Job Safety Analysis, Accountability, Workers Compensation, Drug and Alcohol in the Workplace and Occupational Health Injuries. The importance of safe work practices and the use of “Tool Box Talks” on a regular basis were emphasized by both Brad and Mike. Everyone also watched the unforgettable “Charlie” videos that made an impact of some kind on everyone there.

Liberty Mutual Insurance held a “Decision Driving” class this winter for employees that are driver mentors and will be evaluating fellow drivers to help improve their driving skills. We have asked the employees that took the “Decision Driving” course to ride with every employee in their division at some time during the season so don’t be surprised if one of the mentors rides along with you to help evaluate your driving skills.

DMACC also held “Driver Refresher Courses” for some of our drivers this past winter. There will be instructors from DMACC riding with some of our drivers this season as well.

Training of new hires and on going training of present employees is essential for a good safety program. Besides the on going driver training program, the “Job Safety Analysis” process is equally important. We have asked each Supervisor to do Job Safety Analysis for each job that their employees are required to do. This process identifies the safe procedure and the personal protective equipment required to do each job. The Job Safety Analysis then can be used as a training tool for new employees or a guideline for present employees that are not familiar with the job process.

If we, as a company, continue to train our employees in safe work habits, I feel we can reduce incidents by 25% or more this season, but it is up to each Supervisor to adequately train and maintain training on an on going basis to be a part of the team and reduce our incidents.

Just a reminder that the “Safety Suggestion” voice mailbox is 229.

Let’s have a safe and profitable year.