Wayne Creasap II, the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (IW)’s Director of Safety and Health, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about improving safety for their members on the job. He also discussed this week's annual instructors training in Ann Arbor, Mich., and the importance of using members' knowledge to improve safety training.
On Feb. 1, Creasup was tapped to become the new Director of Safety and Health for the Iron Workers. He discussed the changes that have come to his day-to-day work and what it means to follow in the steps of his predecessor, the now-retired Steve Rank. With a union full of members known as “Sky Cowboys,” Creasup discussed what goes into ensuring all members return home at the end of the day.
As part of the ongoing efforts to improve safety on the job for members, the union hosts a yearly Iron Workers Instructor Training Week in Ann Arbor, Mich. This year is the 40th anniversary of the event, and Creasup discussed the history of safety training for the Iron Workers. He discussed the events for the week and some of the training offered to the instructors in attendance. As part of their focus on safety, Creasup discussed the Be the One program, which encourages members to be the person to speak up if they notice any workplace hazards or unsafe practices.
Finally, Creasup discussed the Iron Workers Safety Director Training Program. He said the program has been in place for the past nine years and has helped members transition from a career on the tools to a career in safety. Creasup said that Ironworkers have a wealth of knowledge and experience on the importance of worksite safety and can use this program to turn that knowledge into the next step of their career. As safety measures continue to improve, the training need to follow suit, and Creasup said this program is one more way that the Iron Workers continue to lead the charge for zero workplace deaths.
For more from Creasap, please listen to the show above.