Safety Always, Not First: Integrating Safety into Government Services Operations

At HHS Government Services, safety isn’t an extra step—it’s built into everything we do. Full transparency: last year, our division had 15 injuries, but eight months into 2024, we’re thrilled to say we’ve had zero incidents! This is an incredible improvement that speaks volumes about how seriously our government services team takes safety and how we've made it a natural part of our daily routine.

"Safety is always, not first." This simple yet powerful message reminds us that we can’t reach our business and productivity goals if safety isn't constantly front of mind. Without profit, we won’t stay in business, and we will all be looking for new jobs. So, safety needs to be a part of everything we do, all the time.” - Spencer Farrow, Vice President of Risk Management, Government Services.

What’s Behind This Big Change?

A few key things have helped us make safety such an integral part of who we are:

• Dedicated Corporate Safety Officer: We brought in a Corporate Safety Officer to support and guide our Project Managers and Site Safety Officers. This role has been a game-changer, making sure everyone understands and follows safety protocols across the board.

• Clear and Tailored Safety Policies: We’ve made sure essential safety policies, such as Lockout/Tagout, HAZCOM, Confined Space, and the specific requirements of EM 385 are understood and readily available at all times. These policies give us a clear, practical guide for staying safe, tailored to what we do.

• Weekly Safety Meetings and Training: Every week, we hold safety meetings and training sessions with our Site Safety Officers. These meetings keep safety top of mind and make sure any concerns are addressed right away.

• Using TEAMS for Safety Documentation: We’ve set up a Safety Channel on TEAMS where all our safety documents and training materials live. This makes it easy for everyone to find the information they need to stay safe, no matter where they are.

• Revitalized Monthly Safety Training and Weekly Toolbox Talks: We’ve freshened up our monthly safety training and weekly toolbox talks by focusing on one key safety principle each month. This way, our team members can absorb and remember the most important safety ideas in manageable chunks.

Making Safety Personal and Practical

We’ve taken our safety game to the next level by developing site-specific incident prevention plans and activity hazard analyses. These plans are tailored to fit the unique needs of each job site, making sure our safety protocols are relevant and adaptable. This personal approach helps us apply safety measures effectively, no matter where we work.

The fact that we’ve seen such a big drop in injury rates this year isn’t just luck. It’s the result of thoughtful planning, constant reminders, and the dedication of every team member. While guidance is key, the real success comes from how each person on the ground takes these safety practices to heart and makes them part of their daily work.

A Team Effort in Building a Safety Culture

Having a safety expert is important, but it’s the combined efforts of our whole team that make the difference. By encouraging open communication, providing the right resources, and constantly emphasizing how vital safety is, we’ve built a workplace where safety isn’t just a priority—it’s part of our culture. This team approach doesn’t just cut down on incidents; it also boosts our overall productivity and efficiency.

What we’ve achieved so far shows just how powerful teamwork can be. Leadership may set the direction, but it’s our team members on the ground who bring these safety practices to life. Their commitment to using knowledge and tools has made our division safer and more effective. This shared dedication helps everyone feel valued and responsible, creating a workplace where safety and productivity go hand in hand.

HHS Team Members at Naval Hospital Bremerton.

Moving Forward Together with Safety

Looking ahead, our goal is easy: keep building on this strong safety culture! It’s about more than just following rules; it’s about creating a supportive community where safety is second nature. By holding regular safety meetings, sharing our experiences and solutions, and ensuring that safety practices are consistent across all job sites, we’re building a unified approach to safety that benefits everyone.

Thanks to the collective efforts of our entire team at HHS Government Services, our culture of safety has grown stronger than ever. The dramatic reduction in injury rates and the integration of safety into our daily operations show how committed we are to making our workplace safe. Together, we’re not just protecting ourselves—we’re building a brighter, safer future for everyone involved. And that’s something we can all take pride in.