Schier Construction Co. Inc. has earned the prestigious 2024 Safety Award, which is an integral part of Equipment World’s Contractor of the Year Award program. Founded by Jim Schier in 1980, the company initially focused on water plant construction in Houston, Texas. Presently, with an annual revenue of $18 million to $20 million and a staff of 37, the company is jointly managed by Jim and his son Brent Schier.
Not only did Schier Construction win the Safety Award, but it was also among the 12 finalists for the overall Contractor of the Year Award. The awards ceremony took place at the Wynn Las Vegas resort on March 21-22. The Safety Award was presented by Equipment World Chief Editor Jordanne Waldschmidt alongside George Hart, Caterpillar North America product marketing manager, who has been sponsoring the Contractor of the Year program for 24 years.
The Safety Award is bestowed upon a Contractor of the Year finalist who demonstrates exceptional safety practices, maintains a low experience modification rate, and has no safety violations issued by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Moreover, the recipient must exhibit a committed effort in fostering a work culture that prioritizes not only job site safety but also encompasses all aspects of human health, including mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Schier Construction Wins 2024 Safety Award (Credits: Equipment World)
Prior to receiving recognition from Equipment World, Schier Construction had garnered multiple accolades for its safety initiatives. Both Jim and Brent Schier have emphasized safety since their respective beginnings in the construction industry, a commitment that persists in their company’s ethos today.
Safety is ingrained in the company culture at Schier Construction, with every employee actively engaged in ensuring a safe work environment. Despite not having a designated safety officer due to the company’s size, all team members are encouraged to report any near misses or potential hazards promptly.
Regular safety meetings, led by Jim and Brent every Monday morning, serve as a platform for discussing various safety topics, conducting OSHA regulation quizzes, and reviewing previous incidents to learn from them. Attendance at these meetings is mandatory, and site-specific safety protocols are reinforced throughout the week by superintendents and crew leaders.
The dedication to safety is incentivized by the company through various benefits such as mid-year and end-of-year bonuses, profit-sharing, healthcare coverage, vacation time, and guaranteed time off during holidays. Moreover, the company supports its employees beyond the workplace by assisting with personal challenges such as addiction or financial hardships, exemplifying a holistic approach to employee well-being.
Schier Construction’s commitment to safety goes beyond mere compliance; it is embedded in the company’s culture and reflects a genuine concern for the welfare of its employees. By prioritizing safety and fostering a supportive work environment, the company not only ensures the well-being of its workforce but also sets a commendable standard for the construction industry as a whole.
