Editor's Note: There will be an awards ceremony for the 2022 class of America's Safest Companies at the Safety Leadership Conference in Cleveland on Oct. 18-20, where current and past winners will be sharing their blueprints for success. You can learn more about the conference and sign up to register at www.safetyleadershipconference.com.
Sani-Matic, Inc.
Automated Cleaning Equipment
Sun Prairie, WI
150 employees | 1 site | 1 EHS professional
When you are in the business of designing and manufacturing sanitary process cleaning systems and a pandemic hits, you jump into action.
Sani-Matic teamed up with seven major pharmaceutical companies to help supply sanitary equipment to help prevent the spread of the virus. Providing products, while keeping its own workforce safe, the company moved to flexible working hours both at the facility and offered remote work. A COVID-19 questionnaire and screening process for all incoming personnel and customers was established, as well as procedures for working remotely. Nothing was left to chance.
Part of the success of reacting quickly to the pandemic was having the right people in place. “When we recruit for new employees, we look for the candidate to have the right safety and culture fit by having each person complete an online assessment to ensure both the employee and hiring manager gel well together,” explains Austin Kiddoo, EHS & facility manager. After a structured onboarding process, new employees throughout the entire organization are given a mentor.
With an eye toward constant improvement, in 2020 the company created an internal program called the Sani-Matic Way to up its game. “The foundation for being the best comes from great people in a safe and healthy culture,” says Kiddoo. So, every Monday morning employees receive a video from the CEO to discuss one of the company's 30 fundamental beliefs.
Safety doesn’t just come from the top of the organization. The company’s safety committee is comprised of key management and three to four office/shop employee representatives, who rotate every six months to ensure fresh ideas. “All employees are encouraged to report all safety suggestions or concerns at any time. In fact, near misses are considered proof of our strong safety culture,” notes Kiddoo.
Keeping vigilant has led the company to employ an extensive auditing system which includes annual mock OSHA Audits, conducted by third-party consultants, housekeeping audits and fall protection equipment inspections.
While the company keeps a close eye on the proper use and maintenance of the equipment, it also helps employees maintain their health through a robust wellness plan. In addition to gym membership reimbursement, the company participates in community activities such as the Crazylegs Classic race. Employees can earn up to $100 per year for participation in health-related efforts such as weight management, fitness programs, and volunteer work.
The company believes in a well-rounded approach to safety. When deciding on the #1 fundamental, Be Vigilant about Safety, the decision of the leadership was unanimous. “Being vigilant about safety is knowing and practicing the safety procedures for your job. Watching out for the safety of your teammates as well, for we’re all part of the Sani-Matic family,” says Kiddoo.
