Poppoff Inc. has improved its safety record with the help of a full-time safety director. Photo courtesy of Poppoff Inc.

Poppoff Inc.’s safety program starts at the top with Mike Poppoff, owner and president, and extends all the way down to every new employee. In February 1999, the company hired a full-time safety director and has since revised its safety manual to bring it up to date and in compliance with the latest standards.

The company has also restructured its new employee orientation into its safety manual so new hires see right away that workplace safety is a serious topic. When a new worker is hired, the first thing he receives is the company safety manual and substance abuse policy. Employees are encouraged to be involved in the safety program. Of the current 35 employees, 25 have first aid and CPR training.

Weekly tailgate meetings are given by the job foreman to encourage more involvement by everyone.

The company also holds site specific meetings when needed. For example, when a job requires use of fall protection, the entire crew meets on site with the safety director to discuss hazards and worker concerns.

Safety issues are also discussed at shop meetings, held every three months.

As a member of the AGC Group Retro program, when the company receives a retro refund check for having a good year, the employees are given a percentage as a reward for their safety record.