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Contractors’ group selects Oak Grove for safety recognition

SANTA ROSA – From the employer’s perspective, a strengthened commitment to health and safety in the workplace can result in a healthier work force, improve the company’s the bottom line and cut costs.

Doug Hamilton, president of Oak Grove Construction, was the recipient of the 2007-2008 Trendsetter Safety Award from the Northern California Engineering Contractors Association.

His firm lowered Workers’ Compensation costs from $130,000 to $57,000 over a four-year period with a concurrent MOD (experience modification factor) reduction from 133 to 76 rating points by decreasing the number of accidents and injuries on the job.

“Safety pays. We don’t want anyone to be hurt, not just while in the field but also in the office where workers can suffer from back strains and carpal tunnel syndrome,” Mr. Hamilton said. “We established a safety culture of wellness and well-being by adopting procedures based on active employee involvement. The key is in maintaining credibility in what we say as well as what we do. We walk the talk.”

Oak Grove Construction also awards $500 to any employee with a suggestion that is incorporated into its safety plans.