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#SAFETYPAYS
FOCUS ON SAFETY
INDUSTRY’S SHORTAGE OF SKILLED WORKERS SHINES LIGHT ON IMPORTANCE OF PROPER SAFETY TRAINING
Due to the skilled labor shortage in the residential construction industry, builders are finding themselves having to do more with less help. Nationwide polls suggest worker’s safety due to the lack of skilled labor is a top concern in 2019. This problem has worsened since the legalization of marijuana and the opioid crisis throughout our state.
REDUCE YOUR RISK
In Washington, this type of climate can also create a higher risk of a Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L &I), Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) safety violation penalty, which have increased dramatically and continue to rise. Now is a good
many benefits beyond assisting drug addiction and alcohol abuse in the workplace. By-products of a healthy safety culture minimize your risk for bad hires, fraudulent injury claims, safety violations and penalties, and high employee turnover.
LEADERSHIP KEY
One of the best ways for employers to combat the rising drug addiction problem in the construction industry is to create a safety culture based on teamwork and accountability. Improving your supervisory leadership and demonstratSafety is the sum of many ing your company’s comparts working together to mitment to safety as well as getting your employees create success. involved in a safety program is crucial. Educating workers time for your company to improve on how unsafe behavior not only afits safety culture on a company-wide fects the company, but the livelihood basis as well as the job site. of co-workers helps employees feel more invested and creates accountability. SAFER EMPLOYEES = SUCCESS Educated employees are safer employees, which in turn yields MENTORS MATTER better awareness and conscientiousInexperienced employees can also ness. Safety is the sum of many parts be a cause of increased and expenworking together to create success. sive workers’ comp claims. Combine This type of success also comes with that with the industry’s labor short-
BUILDING INSIGHT BIAW.com
age, and you get many reasons on why providing good hiring practices and a training and mentoring program designed for young or inexperienced workers can help you lower your risk of workplace injuries.
SAFETY WORKSHOPS AHEAD
BIAW, in conjunction with our local associations, will offer a three-hour workshop to help combat these safety concerns along with how to implement best hiring practices. Classes are being scheduled for 2020. For more information on all BIAW class offerings, visit BIAW.com/education or contact BIAW Education Program Manager Hillary Vanatta at (360) 352-7800 ext. 106 or hillaryv@ biaw.com.
