TEXO SAFETY BLOG

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As we move further into 2014 I wanted to introduce myself.  I am Doug Watson, the new Vice President of Safety at TEXO.  I have had the pleasure to meet quite a few members already but look forward to meeting more and serving throughout the year.  

My interest in safety began 17 years ago when I realized how important it is to use a ladder properly and implement fall protection safety measures.  After I got up from falling one and a half stories, thankfully not injured, I realized there had to be a better way to ensure jobsite safety.  As you can imagine, that incident left an impression on me.  I began to research better, safer ways to get on and off a roof.  During my research I saw that I could get formal safety training. Now, I am currently completing my Masters Certification in Safety & Health. 

The construction industry can be one of the most dangerous industries to work in. It is not only our duty as Safety Professionals to train ourselves better than current OSHA standards, but to be an example every single day and to hold others accountable so we all can go home to our friends and family at the end of each day.  This is a responsibility TEXO holds very seriously.  We are here to help you train your employees and subcontractors in the latest Safety regulations as well as best practices.  

Here are 3 specific opportunities to accomplish that:

• TEXO Safety First – Classes have started for 2014 and we offer 4 opportunities per month.  One English class and 3 Spanish classes per month.  TEXO Safety First is an interactive, hands-on training and is also an OSHA 10-hour class.  Upon my extensive review of the program, I am convinced you will not find a more comprehensive and cost effective safety orientation for your employees.  
  
  
• Safety / Superintendent Forum – The 1^st Wednesday of every month, TEXO hosts a luncheon for Safety & Superintendent professionals.  The topics are real-time with happenings in the industry and lunch is provided.  This also provides a venue to interact with other professionals in the field.
  
  
• Jobsite Audits – A benefit of your TEXO membership is courtesy safety jobsite visits.  We will walk your job and evaluate for compliance issues and work with you on issues observed.   

As the construction industry advances, training programs need to advance as well.  TEXO’s mission in 2014 is to stay ahead of the trends to inform and train you, our members.  I am looking forward to this year and as we start to roll out new safety programs and training initiatives I welcome your feedback and thoughts on ways to serve you better.  Please feel free to reach out to me at any time, doug@texoassociation.org.

Let’s work together to make North and East Texas a safer place to work in 2014!