Decades ago a poorly fitting hardhat was the sole safety precaution on most construction sites. That was back when federal safety laws and company rules were generally considered bureaucratic impediments to getting the work done. Job safety today, however, has evolved into a science – the importance of which is recognized by managers and decision makers at all project levels. At The Corcoran Company safety is a top priority at all stages of a project.  An aggressive safety program has resulted in low incidence of injuries and low workman comp rates for the company.

 "You can’t take anything for granted when it comes to worker safety," says Corcoran Company’s Brian Conn. In addition to handling estimating and project management duties, Conn serves as The Corcoran Company’s Safety Officer. As head of the company’s safety committee, Conn coordinates a suite of safety training seminars, intra-company communications regarding safety, and The Corcoran Company’s safety awards program.

"As a superintendent running a job, it really helps to know that a subcontractor is being proactive about safety."

                                              Andy Looney, Superintendent
                                              Drahota Construction

"In today’s competitive business environment, customers need to know not only that you can handle the job, but that you can handle it safely while minimizing the risk of accidents," says Conn.

The Corcoran Company's emphasis on job safety has been recognized by its customers. "As a superintendent running a job it really helps to know that a subcontractor is being proactive about safety," says Andy Looney of Drahota Construction. "The Corcoran Company’s safety training is top notch."

Construction sites, particularly on large commercial projects, are inherently hazardous environments. The Corcoran Company’s first safety goal is to avoid injuries to employees and others present on the jobsite. "You can’t be cavalier about the welfare of your employees," says Conn. "For that reason we’re constantly monitoring our crews for safety compliance."

As in other aspects of commercial construction, the proactive approach works best. The Corcoran Company provides a variety of safety training and skill certification programs to ensure good working habits among personnel. Effective safety practices involving the use of protective gear, scaffolding, lifts, lanyards and harnesses, for example, enhance the comfort level of the employees -- which in turn enhances productivity as well as accident prevention.

"We’re constantly monitoring our crews for safety compliance."
                             Brian Conn, Project Manager
                             The Corcoran Company

The Corcoran Company personnel also attend specialized safety programs ranging from infectious particle control to fire prevention practices – such programs are particularly important when working in environments such as medical facilities and schools where patient treatment and instruction are being conducted just yards from construction-in-progress.

In addition to the welfare of workers and others present on the jobsite, safety directly affects project costs and progress. Time lost to accidents, insurance considerations, and overall customer satisfaction all benefit from good safety skills among the workforce.

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