Safety Practices
One of the company’s top priorities is developing a “culture of safety.” OBCI management embarked on this goal in 2005. In the time since this goal was established, OBCI has transformed its operations regarding safety. Some of the changes management implemented include:
Accountability
Management created a safety inspector position whose main function is to make site visits, document safe and/or unsafe practices, and issue violations with substantial fines to job cost for non-compliance, which may lead to disciplinary action for the violators. The safety inspector also works with crews to mitigate potential exposures and offers assistance during pre-construction meetings. During the winter months, the safety inspector provides training and management support regarding safety policy.
Fit for Duty Testing
As we desire to provide a drug-free work environment, OBCI subjects all potential new employees and those returning to work after 30 days off to fit for duty testing. Non-negative applicants are not eligible to work for OBCI.
Training
Although many OBCI employees have been trained in OSHA 10 and 30 over the years, in 2007 OBCI began requiring all foremen and key personnel to be recertified every three years. Additionally, in early 2008 OBCI in partnership with Traveler's Insurance, trained 72 employees in Traveler's “Site Sense” program. Lou Addante, Risk Control Specialist for Travelers had this to say: “I would like to commend Otto Baum Company for their proactive approach to field management training and education. The new safety initiatives, along with the Site Sense training classes speak volumes as to the Otto Baum Company's commitment to safety and risk management.”
Pre-construction Safety Planning
OBCI requires that the project managers and foremen review and document a pre-job safety planning program prior to commencing the work. Each job is scanned and distributed among the management team for information and accountability.
Tool Box Meetings/Daily Pre-job Meetings
Management requires foremen to complete daily pre-job meeting with crew members. These meetings are documented and returned to the office and scanned for tracking purposes.
