Creating a Safe Workplace: See It, Own It, Share It

Safety is our number one priority here at 48forty. During National Safety Month this June, we’re celebrating our new safety initiative SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT and sharing how we take health and safety seriously to create a better, safer workplace for us all.


June is National Safety Month. This year marks the 25 anniversary of National Safety Month, an annual observance to help keep each other safe, whether at the workplace or any place. 

At 48forty, our culture is driven by caring about the well-being of our coworkers. We understand that safety is the shared responsibility of each and every employee – no matter their position. With 45 company-owned and operated plants across North America, it’s extremely important that employees are aware of, understand, and observe safety protocols. 

Recently, our plants participated in activities to build team fellowship and discussion around the importance of safety. We shared information, resources (and even swag!) with all 48forty employees as a reminder that “Safety is MY Responsibility”.  SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT is 48forty’s new platform for creating a better, safer workplace for everyone. 

The Livonia, MI team gathered for a safety discussion and lunch.

The Livonia, MI team gathered for a safety discussion and lunch.

SEE IT.

In continuing efforts to promote a safety culture, our first initiative encourages employees to always be aware of their surroundings. Whether at the plant, in the office, at home, or driving, we should always be on the lookout for unsafe conditions.

Understanding safety protocols, requirements, and best practices is key to recognizing unsafe conditions, so staying current on these standards is essential. As standards change, 48forty is dedicated to keeping employees informed and safe. 

Assistant Plant Manager Lisa Helton pledged to SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT!

Assistant Plant Manager Lisa Helton pledged to SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT!

OWN IT.

Our second initiative builds on SEE IT and centers around the responsibility of each and every employee to own safety by not only working safely, but also looking out for the safety of others. That’s why our second initiative is to OWN IT.

Individuals must take personal responsibility for not only their own safety, but for those around them, too. Employees are encouraged to own any potential issues and seek help to resolve them right away. Additionally, our best in class quality management system (QMS) helps guide our internal team operations through ongoing training, auditing, and monitoring. Our QMS system makes sure we’re equipped to provide the highest level of corrective and preventative actions.

Ken Sadenwater and Natalya Calleja helped the Homeland, FL plant team celebrate safety and pledge to SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT.

Ken Sadenwater and Natalya Calleja helped the Homeland, FL plant team celebrate safety and pledge to SEE IT, OWN IT, SHARE IT.

SHARE IT.

There’s a common misconception that reporting safety concerns is equivalent to tattling; however, when it comes to safety there can be no secrets. That’s why our third initiative to SHARE IT is so important.

When a team member uncovers a potential safety concern or discovers an innovative safety solution, we stop and ask where a similar safety issue might exist in our organization and who else might benefit from knowing this information. 

lockport il-1

The Lockport, IL plant discussed safety over a team lunch.

Additionally, we promote safety awareness across the company and share best practices with our subcontractors, vendors, partners, and even the pallet industry as a whole.

Thanks to all 48forty employees for remembering that “Safety is MY Responsibility” and pledging to SEE IT, OWN IT, and SHARE IT every day!

What to look for during a supplier plant visit