Nurse Aileen Nesbitt and Dr. Ron Smart, circa 1975; 96.X1.68.
Nurse Aileen Nesbitt and Dr. Ron Smart, circa 1975; 96.X1.68. |
"This plant's policy on safety is simple:
all injuries and accidents can be prevented.
Less of a commitment would mean we are willing to
sacrifice one of our group to some type of injury."
Waterloo News, April 1977.
The importance of workers following health and safety guidelines both at work and at home was strongly advocated by the Seagram Company. Time lost by an employee due to an accident or sickness, cost the company financially. However, minor injuries as well as serious accidents did occur at the distillery. In several instances, an employee was killed on the work site. To reduce the number of employee accidents and sick days, the company introduced a comprehensive health and safety program in the 1960s. A registered nurse was hired to be available to staff, on a daily basis, to treat minor injuries and to conduct basic tests. A local physician also visited the plant once a week. Security officers were trained to administer first aid and to deal with medical problems that occurred during the evening and weekend shifts.
 "Think Safety", circa 1991; 96.X1.63. Reproduction of a sign posted at the entrance to the plant. |
The focus of the plant's safety program was prevention. A safety committee was formed to investigate work practices, educate workers and to award those employees who practiced safe work procedures. Workers were encouraged to: "Participate in your safety program, it's in your own interest. Safety is the only REAL wage guarantee."
The committee promoted safety awareness throughout the plant by advocating the wearing of safety glasses, shoes and hearing protection, posting and distributing literature and showing films. A large sign at the entrance to the plant served as a daily reminder to every employee of the importance of health and by recording the number of accident-free days achieved within each department. The company's aggressive health and safety campaign proved to be effective, ultimately leading to a reduction in the number of lost-time accidents occurring within the plant.
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