#SafetyforLife: Safety remains a core value as company evolves
As the firm I work for has merged and evolved during the past seven years from legacy firms Flint Field Services and URS and now to AECOM, the core values of safety in my day-to-day job remain unchanged.
I am grateful to have worked in the construction industry at a time when safety concerns are very prevalent, as the values I have learned from my coworkers and mentors are irreplaceable. If I see something unsafe, then saying or doing something about it is not a question in my mind. I have leaders and coworkers who are receptive to feedback and to encouraging safety in the workplace, which I find exceptional.
I believe that a safe working culture is learned, taught and practiced. It is not a “common sense” skill that everyone has. I want to know that the person beside me is willing to work with everyone’s wellbeing in the forefront of his or her mind — and that is prevalent at AECOM and one of the many reasons I enjoy working here. However, it’s also incredibly important for me to set the example because if I see something and don’t correct it, through conversation or action, someone may not make it home. We cannot only be concerned with ourselves or what’s directly in front of us; we need to be concerned about the safety of everyone in our working environment. And this is the essence of AECOM’s culture of caring and Safety for Life program.
As part of the team constructing the new Ipiatik Lake 167S substation in Northern Alberta, Canada, I have had many opportunities to use the safe work practices our team has developed. Whether it is using a boom truck to install steel structures or operate equipment in tight quarters, I know our people will be safe. Working at AECOM, I cannot even imagine a work environment where I would be asked to complete a task using an unsafe method or tool.
The industry’s transition from “Get it done!” to “Can it be done safely?” in the workplace has been something I am extremely happy to have witnessed. Thankfully, gone are the days of sharing stories of something happening that could have easily been prevented and then not working to correct the process.
The purpose of the Ipiatik project is to help meet increasing industrial demand for power. Working with high voltage comes with high risks and no second chances, so I am thankful that I am able to work with a crew and company that support good habits and safety. The guidance and mentorship received at AECOM have been invaluable to my growth as an electrician and as a coworker. I am surrounded by people who are not afraid to offer suggestions or teach me ways to improve myself, and I am very thankful to work here.
Stephen Thomson is currently the quality control lead for AECOM’s high-voltage services group based in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. He has a wife, a daughter, two dogs and a cat. He enjoys travelling, working on cars and spending time with his family.
LinkedIn: Stephen Thomson