Crossland recently achieved a significant safety milestone that sets them apart from the competition. Our Experience Modification Rating (EMR) saw a commendable decrease, dropping 10 points from .51 in 2023 to an impressive .41 in 2024. In an industry where safety is paramount, this accomplishment is not only noteworthy but cause for celebration.
What’s Behind The Numbers?
The EMR is a vital indicator of safety performance in the construction industry, with a lower score signifying a safer workplace. Crossland’s remarkable .41 rating is well below the industry average of 1.0 and surpasses the ‘good’ threshold of .75. This reduction in EMR is particularly praiseworthy considering the amount of self-performance crews we have, a factor that usually elevates the risk of accidents.
National Recognition for Safety Excellence
The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) determines the EMR based on payroll, reported safety incidents, incident type, and insurance claim costs. The number of incidents carries substantial weight in shaping the rating.
Crossland’s dedication to safety is further emphasized by its STEP certification, having achieved ‘Diamond’ status by the Associated Building Contractors (ABC) STEP Safety Management System in 2024. Companies are certified based on their commitment to industry-leading safety, a culture that prevents incidents, and the inclusion of best practices such as toolbox talks, safety orientations, and substance abuse programs. STEP Platinum members are 688% safer than the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics industry average, according to the ABC 2023 Safety Performance Report.*
Beyond the Numbers: A Commitment to Safety
Crossland’s commitment to safety goes beyond just achieving a low EMR. The company operates with a goal of Zero Accidents and Zero Injuries through its “Drive to Zero” initiative. This three-point approach emphasizes planning, preventing accidents, and fostering a culture of zero regrets.
1. Plan Ahead: Crossland prioritizes meticulous planning to foresee and mitigate potential safety risks on jobsites.
2. Stop Accidents: We give employees the autonomy to stop any unsafe acts they might see, ensuring 100% fall protection for tasks above 6 feet and immediately reporting any accidents.
3. Zero Regrets: Crossland encourages employees to look out for each other, empowering them to promptly halt unsafe practices and address any concerns with supervisors.
Safety in Numbers: Why EMR Matters
In an industry where attracting and retaining quality employees is challenging, a low EMR provides a competitive advantage. It’s not just a multiplier but a quantifiable assessment of the likelihood that an employee will return home safely each day. With as many as four fatalities occurring daily in the construction industry across the nation, the significance of maintaining a strong safety culture cannot be overstated.
A Word From the Safety Director
Doug Westervelt, Crossland’s Safety Director, emphasizes the company’s unwavering dedication to safety: “We are working diligently to keep safety top of mind because we want to make sure each employee gets home safely each and every day.”
In conclusion, this notable decrease in EMR is a testament to the unwavering commitment of Crossland, our dedicated safety teams, and the collective pledge of each employee to watch out for one another. Together, we are creating an environment where safety is not just a priority but a shared responsibility, making our sites exceptionally secure places to work.
*abc.org/spr
