Sustainable Operations
Safety
Layne’s historical safety record represents a strong commitment to proactive risk identification and comprehensive training. Every day around the world, Layne Christensen employees and our project partners face safety challenges associated with drilling and construction work. The reality of these challenges drives our dedication to making safety Layne Christensen’s number one priority.
Layne Christensen’s Safety, Health and Environmental department delivers in-house safety training that covers all phases of the health and safety field and is compliant with the most up-to-date OSHA, MSHA and DOT regulations. On the job site, we ensure our field employees possess the necessary personal protective equipment and detailed, site-specific safety information that covers issues including confined space entry, environmental health and safety plans, and on-site monitoring. Our monthly safety publication, which is translated into the primary language of the locations where we operate, provides brief, educational information and reinforces important safety messages.
One of Layne Christensen’s most significant safety efforts is our annual safety training program. Over the course of three days each year, we deliver this training to our field employees as well as any clients or partners who wish to participate. A key component of this training involves a Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) program, which serves as part of our risk management efforts. We also work to ensure every employee understands and abides by our Accident Prevention Policy.
Evidence of our integrated safety program effectiveness is the improvement in our lost time incident rate and total recordable incident rate. We are proud that Layne’s safety record outpaces industry averages because we know that safer employees, contractors, and work environments result in more effective operations. This is demonstrated through the reduction in risk management costs per hour.
Measuring our results leads to opportunities for further responsible action. While we work to correct or minimize safety hazards and provide ample training for each employee in accident prevention, one risk inherent across our businesses is the distance between project sites and the nearest medical facilities. This is one reason we train employees to deliver First Aid, CPR and to operate an automated external defibrillator (AED) device. In 2010, we trained 1,655 employees in these important life-saving skills. We see this training not only as an investment that benefits Layne Christensen, but something that potentially could help save the life of a loved one, friend or community member.
In 2011, Layne Christensen will continue to enhance safety performance through the implementation of several projects and programs. One major initiative, the “Work in the Green Zone” safety reward program, focuses on risk management and provides incentives for employees who identify and mitigate risks that lower exposures and safety incidents. Over the next year, we will remain focused on the following safety goals:
- Achieve a Total Recordable Incident Rate of 3.00 or less for Layne Christensen Company.
- Publish Layne Christensen Company's "12 Green Zone Rules to Work By" — a set of mandatory safety rules that apply to both employees and contractors.
- Implement the “Work in the Green Zone” start card — a program to incorporate the HIRA process and the Work in the Green Zone operating philosophy into our daily preparation and operation practices.
- Implement a supplemental safety training program for supervisors focused on safety leadership.
Over the course of our history, Layne Christensen has developed safety performance standards that exceed compliance with laws and regulations. Because we believe that all accidents are preventable, we continue to strive for 100% safe working hours. Yesterday, today and tomorrow — safety is a driving force within the Layne Christensen culture.