Alright folks, let’s talk about safety. I get it – most of us would rather be talking about the latest tools or a great install we just did. But here’s the deal: safety isn’t just another checkbox, it’s what keeps us in business and gets everyone home at the end of the day. And as PHCC contractors, it’s on us to lead the charge.

At Oak Creek Plumbing & Remodeling, we care about safety, but I’ll be the first to admit, we’re not perfect. We don’t have it all figured out, and we’re probably not doing every single thing we should be. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. If we can do even a little better every day, that’s a step in the right direction.

Building a Culture of Safety (Without Making Everyone Roll Their Eyes)

A real safety culture starts at the top. If the boss doesn’t take it seriously, why would anyone else? That’s why, at Oak Creek, we do our best to keep safety in the conversation. We try to hold regular safety discussions (yes, with coffee and donuts, because that helps!) and make sure our team is aware of best practices. We also know we could take better advantage of PHCC safety training programs to keep our team sharp and up to speed. Safety isn’t about fear; it’s about working smarter and watching out for each other.

Minimizing Hazards and Managing Risk

Every job site has its risks, some more obvious than others. If you’ve ever seen a plumber try to use a five-gallon bucket as a step stool, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Here’s how we try to keep the surprises to a minimum:

• Jobsite Awareness: We encourage our team to stop and assess risks before diving into a job.
• PPE Use: We provide the right gear and remind our team to wear it, though we know we could enforce it better.
• Equipment Maintenance: We do our best to keep our tools and trucks in good shape, but there’s always room for improvement.
• Emergency Preparedness: We know having a plan is important, and we’re working on making sure everyone knows it inside and out.

Protecting Assets and Business Stability

Safety isn’t just about people; it’s about protecting our assets, too. The trucks, tools, and equipment we invest in are the backbone of our business. If we don’t manage those risks properly, we’re setting ourselves up for unnecessary losses.

• Fleet Safety and Maintenance: Keeping our vehicles in good condition prevents breakdowns and accidents that could take a truck (or worse, a team member) out of commission.
• Tool and Equipment Security: We’re working on better tracking and securing our tools, so they don’t disappear from jobsites. Theft and misuse are real risks that impact our bottom line.
• Insurance and Liability Management: Making sure we have the right coverage in place protects us from unexpected hits that could otherwise cripple the business.
• Cybersecurity and Data Protection: In today’s world, risk isn’t just physical. We need to make sure our business information, customer data, and financials are protected from cyber threats.

Drug Testing and Workforce Safety (Because Nobody Wants a Half-Awake Plumber on a Jobsite)

Coffee? Great. Anything stronger? Not so much. At Oak Creek, we take a drug-free workplace policy seriously, though we know enforcement and awareness are ongoing efforts.

We also recognize that safety isn’t just about avoiding substances; it’s about looking out for each other. A tired, stressed-out worker is just as much of a risk as one who’s not fully sober. Keeping an eye on our team’s well-being is part of our commitment to safety … because a well-rested, focused crew does better work and stays safer.

PHCC’s Role in Safety and Risk Management (Because Learning from Others Is Just Smart Business)

One of the best parts of being a PHCC member? Access to top-notch safety resources. From OSHA training to real-world safety tips, PHCC helps us all stay ahead of the game. There’s no reason to learn things the hard way when there’s a whole network of contractors willing to share what works (and what doesn’t).

At the end of the day, safety is what keeps this industry moving forward. It’s not just about avoiding fines; it’s about making sure every single worker gets home at the end of the day.

I’ll be the first to say that we’re not perfect when it comes to safety, but we’re working on it. The important thing is that we keep improving, keep learning, and keep making it a priority. A job done right is a job done safely.

PHCC—National Association President Dan Callies is owner of Oak Creek Plumbing & Remodeling, a second-generation, family-owned and operated company in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.