As The Drum Turns…

In the recent Safety Blitz sessions we talked about short-cuts and behaviors…

This one had a significant impact on one of our employees.

On September 15th, an employee was washing his truck and performed an action that many, if not most of us have done, he ducked under the chute to get to the other side of the truck.  He had done it a 100 times, rarely bumping his head.

This time he nailed it.  The employee indicated he had been hit before (no details provided) but this one put him to his knees.  Did you know head wounds bleed like crazy? His shirt became soaked with blood.

If we take a short-cut or do something risky and nothing bad happens:

•           We tend to repeat the behavior

•           We continue to put ourselves and others at risk

•           Over time we accept the risk as normal and move to even riskier actions…

What-If:

•           He was in an isolated jobsite instead of at the plant.

•           Working at night and at a remote wash-down area

•           He knocked himself out

•           Slipped into the washout basin

What-If instead of ducking under he:

•           walked around the truck

•           swung the chute out of the way

•           had his hard hat on…

Don’t Compromise Your Safety or the Safety of Those Around You…

It is with mixed emotions that I inform you that Priscilla Slate, Payroll Coordinator has decided to retire from the company effective October 31, 2010.

Priscilla has been part of our organization and our Human Resources department for over 39 years focusing on the important role of processing and administering the company’s payroll while also handling other duties including filling in as our switchboard/receptionist as needed, conducting the first day orientation for new employees, and handling all benefit employees get paid accurately and on-time every pay period and that  visitors and guests feel welcome.

She has always been a true team player in the HR department eagerly helping in any way she can to complete a task or project as well as taking on additional responsibilities in recent years. Priscilla has also been a mainstay in the company’s annual United Way campaigns helping conduct and coordinate meetings across the company.  Her involvement has played an important part in the many successful campaigns we have had over the years.

With a cheerful personality Priscilla has befriended many employees throughout the campany and many have come to see her as their advisor, confidante and most importantly, their friend.  She has always made it a point to learn about the employees in the organization often remembering special occasions such as children’s birthdays and significant accomplishments.  While she has always been quick to help someone in need she has been equally as quick to give candid advice and let someone know if they need to “shape up”.

While we are happy and excited for Priscilla, we will miss her knowledge, experience and cheerful personality.  We are currently reviewing the duties of the position to determine the most efficient transition and structure.  We anticipate a decision within a few weeks.

Please join me in thanking Priscilla for all of her many contributions and wishing her the best as she transitions to taking on more full time duties as a grandmother enjoying her grandsons Ethan and Erik.