November 27, 2023

Insights from our Work Safe, Texas Summit in Corpus Christi

Earlier this month, Texas Mutual hosted a Work Safe, Texas Summit in Corpus Christi. Almost 100 business owners and operations leaders attended the event where they learned about workplace safety and compliance through panel discussions. In addition to hearing from panelists, attendees also had the opportunity to raise questions and network with other business professionals. We enjoyed the engaging discussions and are sharing key takeaways from the event to help employers build safer workplaces.

The summit featured two panel discussions with Texas employers and subject matter experts moderated by Pat Niekamp, founder of Texas CEO Magazine. The first panel covered workplace safety and health programs and featured:

• Micah Backlund, HSE director at H&P International Drilling Company
• Terry Fisher, district HSE/HR/training manager at MMR Constructors
• David Martinez, assistant chief at Refinery Terminal Fire Company

Although panelists were involved in a diverse range of industries, they agreed on several important safety measures. One key procedure discussed was stop-work authority, which panelists agreed was something all employees were expected to utilize to control hazards and prevent injuries. Fisher explained that Electrical Contractors even rewards employees who report hazards and stop work, while disciplining employees who continue working after being told to stop.

Each panelist also emphasized the need for a strong safety culture, including having support throughout the organization and maintaining safety as a core value. When asked about reasons why safety programs fail, panelists mentioned several issues to be mindful of:

• A lack of a comprehensive orientation that sets the tone for prioritizing safety
• Failure to correct bad habits
• Not getting buy-in from all levels of the organization
• An absence of strong mid-level managers who are present on job sites

Panelists also had several recommendations to offer other employers who are trying to strengthen their safety program, including not being afraid to make major changes. When it comes to procedures, panelists recommended focusing on making them practical for the employees doing the work. And lastly, they discussed taking time to build trust with employees by staying consistent and delegating responsibility when possible.

The second panel focused on compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and featured:

• Eric Bourquin, vice president of safety services for Texas Mutual
• Marianne McGee, compliance assistance specialist with the OSHA Corpus Christi Area Office

From an OSHA perspective, McGee discussed the importance of understanding and following the agency’s reporting and recordkeeping requirements as well as training employees in basic OSHA regulations using compliance courses. Bourquin and McGee recommended that all employees take OSHA 10-hour courses while supervisor-level employees and above take OSHA 30-hour courses.

Additionally, McGee emphasized that while OSHA is an enforcement agency, it also prioritizes outreach to help employers keep people safe and find the resources they need. She recommended employers consider partnership options like OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs, Strategic Partnership Program and Alliance Program. Bourquin also recommended that employers utilize resources from OSHA, their workers’ compensation insurance carrier and the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).

Keeping people safe is at the forefront of what we do at Texas Mutual and our Work Safe, Texas Summits are just one way we help employers get the resources they need. Stay tuned for more learning opportunities next year, as we’re planning three in-person and one virtual summit for 2024.