Safety Month Spotlight: Prioritizing Safety in Every Corner of the Lumber Industry
June is National Safety Month – A time to pause, refocus, and recommit to keeping our work environments safe. At Gilcrest/Jewett, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the efforts that keep our teams in the yard, warehouse, door shop, and loading areas working safely and efficiently.
The Yard: Where Safety Starts with Awareness
The yard is often the first stop of the day and the hub of outdoor activity. From loading trucks to directing customer pickups, the yard crew balances efficiency with caution. During Safety Month, we remind all team members to:
- Wear high-visibility gear at all times.
- Communicate clearly with hand signals or radios, especially around moving equipment.
- Inspect materials and loads before movement—broken pallets or unsecured bundles can lead to injuries.
Warehouse: Precision Requires Vigilance
Inside the warehouse, attention to detail is critical—not just for inventory accuracy, but also for personal safety. Team members often navigate narrow aisles, handle large materials, and operate various tools. Key safety practices include:
- Using guards and PPE (gloves, glasses, ear protection) at all times.
- Staying alert around machinery and keeping walkways clear of tripping hazards.
- Lifting properly—and using carts, dollies, or mechanical assistance for heavy loads.
Forklifts & Equipment: Driving Safety Home
Forklifts are powerful tools that demand respect and skill. For operators and bystanders alike:
- Only trained personnel should operate forklifts or power equipment.
- Maintain visibility—horns, mirrors, and spotters help prevent accidents.
- Slow down around corners, intersections, and when backing up.
A split-second decision can make the difference between a productive day and a preventable incident.
Door Shop: Focus on Equipment Safety
In the door shop, specialized tools and repetitive tasks require consistent focus. From cutting and assembling to finishing:
- Inspect tools before each use to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
- Use proper jigs and safety setups when operating saws and nail guns.
- Keep workstations clean and organized to prevent slips or distractions.
A proactive approach in the door shop helps protect both the craftsmanship and the craftspeople behind it.
Loading Trucks: Secure Loads, Secure Safety
Loading and unloading trucks is a daily routine—but routines can breed complacency. To reduce risk:
- Double-check weight distribution and secure all loads properly.
- Chock wheels and use stabilizers before loading begins.
- Stay clear of pinch points and always maintain three points of contact when climbing.
Everyday Safety: It’s a Habit, Not a Hassle
Safety isn’t something we switch on once a year—it’s a habit we build into every shift. Whether it’s a quick safety huddle before work begins or pausing to correct a potential hazard, those small moments matter.
This June, let’s renew our commitment to:
- Bringing up issues early—report anything that looks off.
- Watching each other’s backs—a safe team looks out for everyone.
- Leading by example—the way you work sets the tone for those around you.
Because at the end of the day, safety is part of how we do business—not an extra step.
