Published: 1999
Total Pages: 27
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The processes and procedures used by these process improvement teams, (Steel Erection, Electrical, Paint and Blast) represent a base model for reducing workers compensation and occupational injuries. There is a wealth of research and information available to the industry from sources such as, OSHA, Council on Ergonomic and Management, and other governmental and private health organizations, to reduce injuries. Some of the information, research, and recommendations contained in these reports, were utilized during this project to help reduce or prevent further occurrence of injuries and workers compensation cost. What makes this research project different from conventional projects is this; the employees, who actually perform the work, are the individuals involved in the problem solving process. When an organization is committed to reducing injuries and providing a safe environment, buy-in at the lowest employee level can be attained. The success of a business enterprise in the 1990's requires empowering employees to take responsible and accountable actions to assure personal safety on the job. This may sound like the "antiquated" expressions, "the employees are at fault", or "it is human nature", or "they are resistant to change." Quite contrary, management has to put in place, the proper tools, proper training, instill a culture change by living example and most importantly, be a learning organization committed to change. Once the employees are equipped, job performance in a safe, responsible and accountable manner is possible.