Peer-to-Peer Program Recruitment & Process- The combined peer programs (Hold the Pull, Control the Pressure and Keep the Clearance) now have approximately 150 members serving as safety stewards for the Local 1245 membership. In the past when the numbers were smaller, it was easier to track recruitment, but as knowledge of the program grows through safety presentations, recruitment has grown also.
Our overall goal is to place a safety steward in each work yard, so if you know of any person who you think would be a good safety steward, please contact Rich Lane (209-202-9492, rvl5@ibew1245.com) or John Kent (707-301-3599, jdk7@ibew1245.com). Sometimes opportunities to recruit good conscientious union members are lost because positions are not available. Young members or people who have a passion for safety can find a starting point in the peer program.
Any prospective safety steward will be contacted by the program coordinator, sent information on the purpose of the program and safety steward’s duties. Business Representative endorsement is a valuable means for us to check the suitability of any potential safety steward, so as people volunteer we will be contacting their respective Business Rep as well. Once accepted, additional training will be provided at the annual safety stewards’ summit.
Peer Initiative Safety Intervention- Business representatives and peer initiative members are encouraged to report any time they encounter unsafe conditions, members or supervisors who advocate unsafe practices. A peer intervention process is in place to work through such matters either voluntarily or anonymously. Many times change can happen by focusing on options available and issue ownership rather than contention or confrontation. There is an article called “Peer-to-Peer Initiative Explained” that details exactly how peer interventions work and what they are designed to do. This will be part of an overall peer package sent to all Local 1245 Business Representatives.
It is important for Representatives to know about any safety-related matters in his or her area, and the peer initiatives are a resource that can be used upon request. In order to better coordinate any peer related issue or need it is best to contact Rich or John.