The safety of our employees and customers isn't just a priority -- it's a foundational value recognized at the highest levels of our organization and at every facility in which we operate. S-W Cares is our safety culture initiative to define a roadmap for achieving environmental, health and safety (EHS) excellence across the Company. It provides a leadership governance structure that is supported by tools to continuously track and measure our efforts to ensure safe workplaces, protect the environment and meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
Prioritizing Safety While Optimizing Performance
We have formal systems to help employees “find, own, fix and report” workplace EHS hazards before they lead to an incident. Every manufacturing site has developed a safety action plan, and monthly trainings are conducted to reinforce specific focus areas and ensure the implementation of best practices. Employees use what they have learned to audit their personal workspace for potential issues. The effort highlights the fact that employees – regardless of role – can directly impact the safety of their workplace.
In 2023, we are launching our new data management system to further enhance our reporting and oversight capabilities. This program will enhance our ability to find, own fix and report health and safety issues. Within the software, there will also be dedicated learning and training modules and other easily accessible resources to help drive continued learning while promoting the safety and well-being of our employees.
2022 Safety Performance Data
In 2022, our Recordable Case Rate increased from the prior year period. This increase was largely attributable to distribution volumes normalizing as industry-wide supply chain issues abated and our teams subsequently returned to routine hours and activities. Material handling of paint pails and paint cartons continues to be a common cause of recordable injuries. Trips, slips, falls and contact injuries are also common types of recordable injuries. The factors contributing to these injuries will be an elevated focus of ours in 2023 through the ongoing TLC Stay Safe Out There injury reduction initiative.
