Safety Counts

By Kerry Watson, Director of Communications

One thousand, eight hundred forty-four. Two thousand, one hundred two. Customers and employees approaching the facilities in Groveland and Moundridge can’t help but notice these numbers. They are proudly displayed at each location and are placed so anyone entering the facility will notice the number of days the location has worked without a lost-time accident.

"We stress safety in everything we do," states Nathan Eck, senior location manager at Groveland. "Whether it’s climbing in and out of a spray rig, entering a grain bin, or ensuring the sidewalks are free from snow and ice, the safety of our employees and our customers is our number one priority."

Agriculture has often been cited as one of the most dangerous industries to work in. "An agricultural co-op such as MKC isn’t much different than a farming operation," states Bob Hickman, safety director for MKC. "The same types of hazards exist for both entities. We conduct on-site trainings with all new hires and then repeat these trainings numerous times throughout an employee’s career."           

Through the development of a safety committee three years ago, MKC has enhanced its safety trainings. The twelve-person committee includes location managers, elevator operators, agronomy team members, office personnel and the company’s safety coordinator. Prior to the committee, safety policies and programs were spearheaded by the directors of operation and the safety coordinator. "Members of the committee each bring a different perspective which forces us to have a wider scope when reviewing and setting policies," Hickman said.

Hickman noted the co-op spends an average of $100,000 each year on safety training. In addition to monthly on-site safety meetings, employees participate in trainings offered by numerous agencies affiliated with the agricultural industry. Most recently several employees participated in a grain engulfment rescue, sponsored by Nationwide Insurance.

Hickman noted a low incident rate certainly provides for lower insurance costs but adhering to safety policies is more than about saving the co-op money. "It’s about making sure anyone who enters one of our facilities also leaves without any injury."