Three Federal-Mogul manufacturing facilities have reached the safety milestone of one million hours worked without a lost-time accident.
"It truly takes a team effort to reach a milestone of this magnitude and this achievement is a prime example of our employee''s teamwork and commitment to a strong safety program," said Brian Banwart, plant manager for the Avilla, Ind., facility.
Enhancement to Avilla''s safety program over the past several years have included implementation of CD-ROM training modules for safety topics, a safety incentive program, a new reporting form for employees to submit safety concerns and implementation of a "no jewelry" policy in manufacturing operations.
Avilla manufactures automotive lighting sockets, connectors, backplates and switches for automotive original equipment and aftermarket applications.
At the Frankfort, Ind., plant employees are also proud of their safety accomplishments.
"We received the corporation''s Bronze Significant Improvement Safety Award in 1998 and the Silver award in 1999. We are well on our way to receiving the gold this year," said Al Houser, plant manger.
The Frankfort plant has a number of ongoing safety initiatives in place to focus on continual safety improvement, including safety recognition programs, training, safety newsletters, visible safety posters and a central safety information board.
Frankfort manufactures radial lip oil seals and transmission pistons used in a wide range of vehicle applications and employs approximately 850.
The Orangeburg, S.C., plant says its achievement is a result of each employee''s commitment to safety.
"Our safety philosophy is summed up with the phrase ''Keeping Yourself Safe''," said Jeff Hawley, plant manager.
The Orangeburg facility recently introduced 60-second safety vignettes during each shift''s team meeting to obtain a focus on safety when starting the day.
Last year the plant received Federal-Mogul''s Health and Safety Significant Improvement Bronze Award.
Orangeburg manufactures brake pads for automotive original equipment customers and employs approximately 300.
by Virginia Sutcliffe