Putting safety first builds a positive workforce culture

MCS Influencer LeeAnn Slattery says prioritizing safety in manufacturing boosts a company's efficiency and reputation.

ATAS International, a manufacturer of metal wall cladding, roofing, ceilings and accessories, takes safety very seriously which contributes to a positive workforce culture. We have a safety committee that meets regularly to assess what is being done well and areas for improvement to prevent accidents. Any employee, whether they are a member of the safety committee or not, is encouraged to bring any hazards near misses to the attention of management so that the problems can be addressed and resolved. During our quarterly company-wide employee communications meetings, safety reminders are shared to keep everyone in the mindset of maintaining a safe working environment. Communication is key for our strong safety culture at ATAS. 

Programs like reimbursement for work boots are valuable to ensure that employees are wearing proper footwear while working in the factories and saving the employee money at the same time. ATAS also invests in CPR and First Aid training for any employee who would like to participate and become certified. This results in increased morale as employees get paid to learn important life savings skills that may be implemented at work and at home. Not only does ATAS cover the cost of the training, but the employees are also paid for the workday when the class is held. Certification is valid for a two-year period, and employees can choose to recertify, if they wish.  

ATAS has two ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing locations in the United States: the headquarters in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and their facility in Mesa, Arizona. ISO certification for a manufacturer is an independent verification that their processes, products and systems meet internationally recognized standards for quality, safety, efficiency and consistency. This proves a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, helping reduce defects, streamline operations and gain global credibility. Safety in manufacturing is important for an organization to manage to ensure occupational health and safety, reduce risks, prevent injuries, ensure legal compliance and drive continuous improvement in worker well-being, all of which boost efficiency and reputation.