Comprehensive Employee Assistance Programs
Ritsema Associates has taken significant steps to address the mental health of its workforce, recognizing the pressing need for support amidst changing demographics and the challenges faced by construction workers. The company offers a comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides free and anonymous assistance to employees and their families. This program includes counselling services, will creation, and elder care consultations, ensuring that help is readily available when it is needed most. Additionally, Ritsema has partnered with HealthBar, allowing employees to consult with a medical practitioner by phone, 24 hours a day, at no cost.
Leadership Commitment to Safety
At Ritsema Associates, safety is a core value supported by top leadership, project managers, and supervisors. The company prioritizes the well-being of everyone on its job sites and in offices, aiming for employees to leave each day in the same or better condition than when they arrived. CEO, Jason Thomas, emphasizes a culture of safety by discussing employee safety in every meeting. He makes it clear that “time is not an excuse to forgo safety,” stating that no task is too urgent to compromise safety standards. Additionally, the FRAME Award program recognizes employees who demonstrate the company’s safety values, promoting a culture of accountability and vigilance.
Continuous Safety Program Improvements
Ritsema Associates regularly updates its safety protocols by learning from past experiences every year. This commitment is reflected in the recent decision to update the ladder policy, which includes replacing all step ladders with lean-safe models as recommended by the manufacturer. These changes aim to standardize safety practices across the company and reduce hazards linked to outdated equipment. Additionally, the company has improved its Injury Reporting and Treatment protocols by integrating the HealthBar telehealth system, allowing for quick access to medical consultations for minor jobsite injuries.
Proactive Safety Planning
Effective safety planning is a key part of Ritsema Associates’ project implementation process. Before starting any project, kickoff meetings help the project team assess specific needs and potential safety issues. Weekly toolbox talks and Job Hazard Assessments by field employees keep safety a priority during operations. The Safety Manager also makes site visits to monitor job conditions and spot hazards, enabling the team to quickly adapt to unexpected challenges.
Tracking Leading Indicators for Enhanced Safety
Ritsema Associates uses innovative tracking systems to monitor safety performance indicators. For example, they’ve implemented a QR Code system that allows employees to easily report near misses, promoting transparency and open communication without fear of consequences. The company is also working to certify all jobsite Foremen with the OSHA-30 hour certification, as research shows these individuals tend to maintain safer job sites than those with only OSHA-10 hour training.
By prioritizing education and proactive reporting, Ritsema Associates is dedicated to creating a safer working environment for everyone.
