STC Case Study: Safety Measures Lead to Significant Savings for Glass Contractor

A family-owned glazing contractor recently experienced a surge in growth, but with it came a string of accidents and rising insurance premiums. This blog will explore the company’s challenges and the solutions STC implemented to create a safer, more cost-effective business. Here’s everything you need to know about how STC improved performance for our client:

The Challenges Presented

The sudden growth of the glass contractor led to a high frequency of Workers’ Compensation and Auto claims, including some severe incidents. As a result, their insurance premiums increased considerably for the next two years. We set out to help them improve their safety procedures to save our client money and, more importantly, save lives.

A Universal Solution

STC implemented monthly executive safety performance meetings and employee safety training courses to establish a more safety-conscious culture. They also conducted regular and frequent safety inspections and near-miss investigations to prevent further claims. STC introduced Swingle Collins & Associates to the client as a new insurance broker, who fully engaged and utilized STC’s services for future insurance renewals.

The Impact of STC

STC and Swingle Collins assisted the glass contractor in reducing their Experience Modification Rating (EMR) from 1.88 to 0.77. Through consistent awareness of STC’s safety initiatives, Swingle Collins leveraged key documentation, which helped lead to significant insurance savings for the client. The glass contractor has experienced a 53% price decrease in Workers’ Compensation (WC) rates since STC and Swingle Collins joined forces.

The glass contractor’s fast growth presented challenges, but with the help of STC and Swingle Collins, they could implement effective safety solutions that not only improved their overall performance but also resulted in significant insurance savings. By prioritizing safety, the company could continue growing without sacrificing its employees’ well-being or the business’s financial health. Want to learn more about STC? Check out our blog today!

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Conducting a Hazard Assessment: A Step-by-Step Guide for Worksites

Hazard assessment is a critical process for ensuring the safety and health of workers at any work site. It involves identifying potential hazards that could cause injury or illness and implementing measures to control or mitigate them. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hazard assessment is the first step in establishing a comprehensive safety and health program. In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on conducting a hazard assessment at your worksite. Here’s a guide from the experts at STC:

Step 1: Gather Information and Assess the Worksite

Before starting the hazard assessment process, gathering as much information as possible about the worksite and the tasks being performed is important. This may include reviewing safety records, consulting employees and supervisors, and observing work practices. It’s also a good idea to check any relevant regulations or industry standards to ensure that you’re aware of all the potential hazards that may be present at the worksite.

Step 2: Identify the Hazards

Once you understand the worksite and the tasks being performed, the next step is to identify the potential hazards. This can be done through various methods, such as brainstorming sessions with employees, conducting a worksite walk-through, and reviewing accident and injury records. It’s important to involve employees in this process, as they may be aware of hazards that management has not identified.

Step 3: Evaluate the Risks Associated with the Hazards

Once you have identified the potential hazards at the worksite, the next step is to evaluate the risks associated with each hazard. This will involve considering the likelihood of the hazard occurring and the potential consequences if it does occur. For example, a hazard with a high likelihood of occurring and could result in severe injury or death would be considered a high-risk hazard. In contrast, a hazard with a low likelihood of occurring and minimal consequences would be considered a low-risk hazard.

Step 4: Implement Controls to Mitigate the Risks

Once you have identified and evaluated the risks associated with the hazards at the worksite, the next step is to implement controls to mitigate those risks. This may involve a variety of measures, such as providing protective equipment, instituting safety protocols, or implementing engineering controls to eliminate or reduce the hazard. It’s important to prioritize the implementation of controls based on the level of risk, with higher-risk hazards being addressed first.

Step 5: Review and Update the Hazard Assessment Regularly

The hazard assessment process is not a one-time event but should be ongoing, regularly reviewed, and updated as needed. This may involve revisiting the worksite and reassessing the hazards, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of the controls that have been implemented. By conducting regular hazard assessments, you can ensure that your worksite remains safe and healthy for all employees.

No matter how you choose to prepare your workplace for hazard assessments, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about conducting a hazard assessment at your worksite? Check out our blog today!

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The Most Effective Ways to Give Construction Safety Briefings

At STC, we believe that construction safety briefings are an essential part of any construction project. They provide an opportunity for project managers and supervisors to communicate important safety information to workers, and ensure that everyone is aware of the potential hazards and risks that may be present on the job site. But how can you ensure that your safety briefings are effective and provide the necessary information to keep workers safe? Here are nine tips for giving an effective construction safety briefing from the safety experts here at STC:

  1. Make them interactive: Construction safety briefings should not be a one-way lecture. Encourage participation from workers by asking questions, soliciting feedback, and allowing for discussion. This helps to engage workers and ensure that they are paying attention and understanding the information being presented during the construction safety briefing.
  2. Keep them concise: No one wants to sit through a long, tedious construction safety briefing. Keep your briefings as short and to-the-point as possible, focusing on the most important information.
  3. Use visual aids: People often retain information better when it is presented visually. Consider using visual aids such as slides, videos, or demonstrations to help illustrate important points during the construction safety briefing.
  4. Make them relevant: Make sure that the information presented in the construction safety briefing is relevant to the specific tasks and risks faced by the workers in attendance. This helps to ensure that the information is applicable and useful to them.
  5. Review frequently: Safety protocols and procedures can change, so it is important to review safety information regularly through construction safety briefings. Consider scheduling regular construction safety briefings to review and update workers on any new or revised procedures.
  6. Encourage questions: Encourage workers to ask questions during the construction safety briefing, and make sure to take the time to answer them thoroughly. This helps to ensure that workers have a clear understanding of the information being presented and can ask for clarification if needed.
  7. Follow up: After the construction safety briefing, follow up with workers to ensure that they understand the information and are implementing it on the job. Consider setting aside time for one-on-one training or coaching if needed.

No matter how you choose to create engaging safety briefings, STC is here to ensure that you have all of the tools you need. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Why You Should Update Your End-of-Year Safety Plans and Procedures

As the end of the year approaches, it’s important to take some time to review and update your workplace safety plans and procedures. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, taking a few minutes to review and update your safety protocols can help ensure a safe and healthy work environment for your employees. Here’s everything you need to know about updating your end-of-year safety plans and procedures with STC:

Identifying Potential Risks and Hazards

One of the key benefits of regularly reviewing and updating your safety plans and procedures is that it helps to identify potential risks and hazards that may have been overlooked in the past. This can include everything from identifying new types of equipment or materials that may pose a risk, to identifying changes in the way work is being carried out that may have introduced new hazards. By proactively identifying and addressing these risks, you can help prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Creating Awareness Around Safety

Another benefit of updating your safety plans and procedures is that it helps to ensure that your employees are aware of the latest safety protocols and procedures. This is especially important as new employees may not be familiar with the specific protocols and procedures in place at your workplace. By providing regular training and updates on safety procedures, you can help ensure that your employees are prepared to work safely and effectively.

Keeping Up with Equipment and Supplies

In addition to reviewing and updating your safety plans and procedures, it’s also important to ensure that all of your safety equipment and supplies are in good working order. This includes things like fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and personal protective equipment (PPE). By regularly checking and replacing any damaged or expired equipment, you can help ensure that your employees have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job.

No matter how you choose to prepare your workplace for 2023, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for any situation. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Winter Safety Tips to Keep Employees Safe in Harsh Weather

As the winter season approaches, it’s important to take steps to ensure the safety of your employees in harsh weather conditions. From snow and ice to freezing temperatures, there are a number of hazards that can arise during the winter months. Here are a few winter safety tips to keep in mind as you work to keep your employees safe during this time of year from STC:

Dress for the Season

Encourage employees to dress appropriately for the weather. This includes wearing layers to stay warm, as well as waterproof and slip-resistant boots or shoes to prevent falls on icy surfaces.

Create a Game Plan

Have a plan in place for employees who need to work outside in cold weather. This might include providing warm shelter, access to hot beverages, and frequent breaks to come inside and warm up.

Clear Any Potential Dangers

Ensure that all outdoor walkways and parking lots are cleared of snow and ice. This will help prevent slips and falls, as well as make it easier for employees to get to and from their vehicles safely.

Always Stay Prepared

Have a supply of rock salt or other ice-melting chemicals on hand to treat slippery surfaces. This will help to make walkways and parking lots safer for employees and customers.

Discourage Dehydration

Encourage employees to stay hydrated, as the cold weather can lead to dehydration. Make sure that there is plenty of water available, and encourage employees to drink frequently throughout the day.

Stay Vigilant of Weather Changes

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for adverse conditions. This might include having a plan in place for employees who may need to leave work early or come in late due to dangerous driving conditions.

By following these winter safety tips, you can help keep your employees safe during the colder months. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to safety, so don’t wait until a problem arises to take action.

No matter how you choose to prepare your employees for winter, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help keep you prepared for the new season. Want to learn more about keeping your employees safe from potential dangers? Check out our blog!

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Celebrating National Preparedness Month with Emergency Response Tips from STC

At STC, we are dedicated to helping our clients be as prepared as possible for whatever may come their way. Natural disasters, routine illnesses and workplace fatalities are all emergencies that can completely uproot a job site if you aren’t prepared. Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating National Preparedness Month the right way with STC:

National Preparedness Month

Each year, we observe this month as a chance to spread awareness about the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. Depending on which part of the country you are in, you know which natural disasters pose the biggest threat. Spend the month thinking ahead by preparing for those natural disasters you know could strike at any moment. You’ll be glad you did if anything should occur!

Making Plans to Stay Safe

From tornadoes in Texas to hurricanes in Florida, there are plenty of natural disasters that have the ability to completely dismantle our everyday lives. We believe it’s always best to stay prepared for anything that may come your way, no matter the situation.

Do you know where to evacuate in case of an emergency?

Do you have emergency grab-and-go kits prepared?

Do you have a plan for pets in case of emergency?

These are essential questions to ask yourself in honor of National Preparedness Month! Make the most of this month by making sure you are always prepared for anything.

Workplace Safety Programs

No matter what kind of industry you’re in, establishing a workplace safety program can save you time and money down the road. These programs are geared to prevent injuries, illnesses, and even deaths on the job, as well as stopping financial hardships and suffering often experienced by workers and their families, as well as the company. If you’re struggling to develop a workplace safety program that puts employees first, STC is always here to help!

No matter how you choose to prepare your employees for potential dangers, STC is here to help guide you through every step. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help prepare your employees for every situation. Want to learn more about celebrating National Preparedness Month? Check out our blog today!

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Celebrating Saul Piña, a Prime Example of STC Safety Excellence

At STC, we believe in celebrating those that take safety as seriously as possible. One of our employees working for our Georgia branch, Saul Piña, is a prime example of the kind of safety excellence that we strive to achieve with every job. Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating Saul and all that he does to keep our clients, employees and himself safe on the job:

About Saul Piña & STC

Saul brings a diverse skill set derived from his rapid exposure to our growing portfolio of high-profile clients and the strategic alliances we have formed with them. Saul is an energetic and passionate Spanish-speaking safety professional that always works to achieve more. He is not only an Authorized OSHA instructor, but also an official CERTA Roof Torch instructor.

Saul has been with STC for over a year now, with half of his time spent under the title of Field Manager, and the other half as Relationship Manager. The responsibilities of an employee at STC are often hard to define one by one, but easily quantified by the following: Everything we do must center around preserving the world’s most precious resource – human life.

A Day in the Life of STC Safety

Our responsibilities take many shapes and forms. This could be a site job site visit at 2:30 A.M. to make sure a concrete pour is running safely or training on different equipment such as forklift, boom lift, spyder lift or a torching apparatus. This could be asking an employee to stop work immediately because his life is in danger, and it could also be quickly putting your hand on their back and showing them there is a better way. The responsibilities at STC are many, but they all lead to one goal. Protecting the lives of employees in various industries, no matter what.

“Just like I do, I know there are many workers that leave their house knowing that there are people there who are expecting them to make it back every day. There are children, spouses, families, or partners that are awaiting the return of that employee. Workplace safety transcends beyond the income that the worker brings home. Workplace safety does not equal money or revenue. Workplace safety equals smiles, hugs, fun weekends, trips, vacations, graduations and a myriad of other things. Approximately 4,500 people were involved in an occupational fatality, without workplace safety that number increases exponentially! Meanwhile, all that was listed before, decreases.” – Saul Piña

No matter how you choose to celebrate Sauls’s achievement and dedication to safety, STC is always here to help you make safety simple with an entire workforce committed to keeping people safe. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, instructor-led training and safety consulting services that will help build a safety culture around your business. Want to learn more about everything that our employees do to keep you safe? Check out our blog!

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Celebrating Ultraviolet Safety Month with Our UV Protection Guide

At STC, we believe in keeping employees safe in every situation. July is Ultraviolet Safety Month, so we will focus on highlighting the importance of UV and heat protection, especially in the harsh summer temperatures we have been experiencing the last few months. Here’s everything you need to know about protecting yourself from UV Rays during Ultraviolet Safety Month!

The Importance of UV Protection 

As the summer heat continues to rise, the importance of UV protection cannot be overstated. To celebrate Ultraviolet Safety Month, we are working to create awareness about the importance of protecting our eyes and skin from the side effects of UV rays. Follow these crucial steps to protect yourself and others on your crew from UV light exposure:

  • Wear at least 15 SPF sunscreen or higher during the day
  • Cover exposed skin with sleeves, pants, hats and sunglasses
  • Try staying in the shade when the sun is the most intense

The Effects of Prolonged Exposure

Whether the UV light is coming from a natural source or an artificial source, the effects are the same. Prolonged exposure to UV light can lead to multiple forms of cancer, premature aging of the skin and a weakened immune system. It can also affect vision, cause sunburns and cause cataracts to form. It’s crucial to keep yourself, your family and your crew safe from UV rays. 

Heat Continues to Be An Issue

While we continue to work through record-breaking heat, it’s important to remember that the hottest month of the year is yet to come. August is known to be particularly hot with some of the hottest days ever recorded in the United States. Keep your crew safe by making an even bigger effort to protect them from UV light, heat illness and even death. We are working through this heat together and our biggest goal is to ensure the safety of everyone on our team and yours. 

No matter how you choose to protect yourself from UV rays, STC is always here to help you make safety simple. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, instructor-led training and safety consulting services that will help build a safety culture around your business. Want to learn more about protecting workers from extreme heat with STC? Check out our blog!

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Summer Safety Tips To Keep Your Crew Safe with STC

As summer starts to heat things up with record-breaking heat waves, it is crucial that every employee stays safe in these dangerous working conditions. Heat illness can set in a lot faster than most people think, so we’ve put together a list of quick tips to keep your crew safe. Here are some essential summer safety tips from the safety experts on the STC team:

Always Stay Hydrated, No Matter What

Hydration is key to preventing heat illness in your crew. People working in harsh summer conditions can lose a lot of hydration due to sweat and exposure to the summer sun. To keep your entire crew safe, it’s important to provide essentials such as water, electrolytes and plenty of breaks throughout the day to ensure everyone has a chance to cool off and stay hydrated.

Stay Up-to-Date on OSHA Guidelines

OSHA is notorious for regularly updating and improving safety guidelines, so it’s important to follow them as closely as possible to keep your crew safe. Recently, they introduced enhanced and expanded measures to protect workers from the hazards of extreme heat, both inside and outside. If you feel like you’re falling behind on all of the constantly updating guidelines, check back into our blog where we outline new guidelines as they are introduced.

Summer Safety Tips for Construction

Summer is one of the best seasons for finding construction jobs, but one of the hardest seasons for workers. Staying prepared for summer weather can keep your employees safe from severe injuries, illnesses and even death. Help your employees protect themselves from extreme heat by ensuring they are taking regular breaks and wearing light, breathable clothing.

No matter how you choose to implement these summer safety tips, STC is always here to help you make it simple. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, instructor-led training and safety consulting services that will help build a safety culture around your business. Want to learn more about protecting workers from extreme heat with STC? Check out our blog!

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Quick Safety Tips for Construction in Honor of National Safety Month

At STC, we believe that safety is the most important part of every job, no matter how big or small. That’s why we are so excited to celebrate National Safety Month this month and continue our dedication to preserving human life every day of the year. Here’s how you can make safety a priority in your workplace to celebrate National Safety Month the right way with STC:

Keep Your Safety Plans Up-to-Date

It’s easy to go months without updating your workplace safety plans, especially during months without incident. When you work in construction, there are tons of dangerous situations and new kinds of incidents can occur without you even realizing they were an issue in the first place. As you take your walks of the job site, it’s important to look for specific hazards and update your safety plans accordingly to keep your entire crew safe.

Let Those with Experience Lead the Way

During your regular safety meetings, you can let those with more experience lead the way by explaining what they have experienced with certain jobs in the past. More likely than not, they have had to learn things the hard way and can pass that knowledge onto the younger members of your crew. You never know what kind of situations may occur, but those with first-hand experience will understand how to better prepare your crew for what to expect.

Celebrate National Safety Month

One of the most important things you can do for your crew is to make safety a top priority in your workplace. When your crew has a safety culture that they can fall back on, they will not only keep themselves safer on the job but also keep those around them safe. Some of the best ways to implement a safety culture in your business are keeping training regular and celebrating the importance of safety all year long. You never know when you’ll need the training most.

No matter how you choose to prepare your employees for National Safety Month, STC is here to make safety simple with our services. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, from onsite safety staffing to safety consulting to help prepare your employees for every situation. Want to learn more about keeping your workplace safe? Check out our blog today!

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