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Galloway Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying Blog

Building a Safety Culture

May 7th, 2024

In the world of construction, safety is not just a priority— it is a culture.

“We have a culture of safety at Galloway,” said Lyle Bissegger, Galloway principal and survey team manager. “It is important for everyone on our team to be invested in each other’s safety. We look out for each other, creating a unique bond of trust and accountability among team members.”

As we celebrate Construction Safety Week, we shed light on the measures our survey team takes to guarantee the safety of our employees every day.

Equipped for Safety

From hard hats to high visibility vests, gloves to boots, we provide our team with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to mitigate potential risks on-site. We also require two-person crews on construction sites, with one person dedicated to observing safety protocols and potential hazards.

Tailored Approach

Recognizing that safety needs vary from project to project, we evaluate and address safety requirements specific to each undertaking, ensuring comprehensive safety measures are in place. Lyle adds: “It is not a one-size fits all approach. We evaluate all the safety needs specific to each project and communicate with our staff on how to safely approach each component.”

Open Dialogue

During weekly survey meetings, our teams engage in safety discussions. We encourage active participation, inviting staff to share safety concerns, suggest improvements, and even lead safety talks based on their field experiences.

Continuous Education and Specialized Safety

Safety is always evolving. That is why we are currently implementing a 10-hour OSHA safety course. We also ensure all specialized training for industries like oil and gas, ATV operation, or boat safety for bathymetric surveying is completed. We provide specialized safety training and equipment tailored to the unique demands of each project. When working on streets bustling with traffic, we hire dedicated traffic control personnel to manage the flow and keep our team and passersby safe. Additionally, bi-annual first aid training equips our team with the skills needed to respond effectively in case of emergencies.

Empowerment and Collaboration

Safety is not imposed; it is empowered. We foster a culture where every team member feels comfortable speaking up about safety concerns or equipment needs. By listening and acting on their feedback, we prioritize their confidence and well-being. “We empower our staff to speak up about safety equipment and situations, and we get the equipment they need to feel comfortable on-site.” said Lyle.

As we navigate the dynamic landscape of construction, safety remains our unwavering commitment. Because at Galloway, our greatest achievement is not just completing impactful projects—it is ensuring every member of our team returns home safely each night.

 

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