Safety Stewards training participants
On September 25, 11 new safety stewards were trained on their duties with the Local 1245 peer initiatives. Experienced members of the Control the Pressure, Hold the Pull and Keep the Clearance safety programs trained the new members of their respective peer committees to ensure they understand their duties and responsibilities as well as details on how the peer program works. At the conclusion of the training class, the trainees were asked what surprised them most about the program, and many indicated they thought the duties were more like a traditional steward, and were surprised to find their role is that of a safety advocate who supports good work practices and personal responsibility with an approach toward making positive changes within their work groups. They also noted that the peer program is network-driven, and relies on mutual support between the members, the stewards and the union.
Between April and September of this year, 21 new safety stewards have been recruited into the ranks. This increase is the result of a drive to increase the peer roles by asking for steward recommendations from business representatives, other safety stewards, committee members and Local 1245 members who have volunteered to join the safety initiative. As an indication of growth, in 2012 there were a total of 85 peer members in the three respective groups; today there are 146 safety stewards and committee members serving in a safety role at Local 1245. It is amazing the level of dedication and motivation that is exhibited through the volunteers of the peer-to-peer initiatives. Anyone who volunteers to be a safety steward is interviewed and their business representative is contacted for a recommendation before appointment.
A “big thank you” to all of the new safety stewards, committee members and Local 1245 staff who attended the training.
New Safety Stewards in Attendance: Dan Costa, Sergio Gamboa, Rich Handley, Donna Justice, David Kelly, Scott Kemp, Devon Knight, Armand Rains, Eric Riggs, Zach Romeo and Mike Scafani.
Peer Committee Members: Roy Cabral, Pete Ely, Tanny Hurtado, Casey Kelley, Ernie Pena and John Kent.
IBEW 1245 Staff: Abel Sanchez and Junior Ornelas.
–Rich Lane, IBEW 1245 Safety Rep