For Immediate Release: Feb. 5, 2008

Company Experiences 85-Percent Drop in Workplace Accidents

Comprehensive Safety Plan Makes Preventing Injuries a Top Priority

BELLEFONTAINE – In the high risk industry of commercial construction, Thomas & Marker, located in Bellefontaine, has made its associates’ health and well-being paramount in defining its success. The results of this effort speak for themselves. Since 2002, the company has seen an 85 percent decrease in workplace injuries, experiencing just three total claims in 2007. It has also seen the amount paid for medical and compensation drop nearly 99 percent since 2004.

“Safety has always been a top priority for this company,” said Randall Marker, president. “We had a safety program in place, but needed our associates to not only buy into it, but also take the initiative to take personal responsibility for implementing it.”

The company has invested in a safety manager, who is tasked with maintaining safety policies and ensuring they are being followed by associates. Thomas & Marker recently completed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Challenge Pilot program which analyzes the company’s safety policies and practices in great detail. Next, company leaders plan to apply for the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program, which, if achieved, would place Thomas & Marker among the safest organizations in the country, and one of only 31 General Contractors in the nation to carry that distinction.

Working with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC), the company has implemented a number of safety and return-to-work programs that have aided in its success. “Thomas & Marker’s leadership team understands the impact safe work practices can have on a business,” said BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan. “By implementing a safety culture, they have not only strengthened their organization, they are also assisting in improving the efficiency of Ohio’s workers’ compensation system.”

Thomas & Marker has instituted an associate recognition program, which rewards those who consistently work to keep themselves and their co-workers safe. If an associate does happen to get hurt, the company has a transitional work program in place to assist in their recovery, while keeping them involved at work to the extent possible.

Established in 1956, Thomas & Marker specializes in commercial construction. The company averages over 100 employees and has offices in Bellefontaine and Marysville.

BWC and its Division of Safety and Hygiene offer Ohio employers a number of risk and safety programs at no additional cost. For more information, visit ohiobwc.com's Safety Services page.

Contact: Ryan Rekstis
Ryan.R.1@bwc.state.oh.us

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