JDI Sawmill Division hits historic safety record

The J.D. Irving, Limited Sawmill Division marked significant safety achievements in September, reaching the lowest Recordable Incident Rate (RIR) and Lost Time Injury Rate (LTIR) in division history.

The Sawmill team attained a record 1.89 RIR for the last 12 months, representing a 40 per cent reduction in injuries compared to the same time period last year. In the same 12-month period, the division also hit a record low LTIR at 0.78 – a 65 per cent reduction in lost time injuries over the previous year.

The significant accomplishment is a testament to the division’s approach on improving a culture to become a core value embedded in every decision, more than measuring injury counts, this approach includes employee engagement on reducing risks and looking after each other. 

Employees are actively encouraged to participate in the safety program by reporting hazards. This proactive approach allows for the correction of conditions with injury potential before an injury happens. When everyone takes ownership of safety, the workplace is safer.

“These historic milestones are the result of the commitment of our entire team. As we continue our journey of continuous improvement, employee engagement to safely produce forest products continues to be a key component of our safety program,” said Daniel Couturier, the Senior Director of Health & Safety for the Sawmill Division. “Our ambition is that every worker returns home safe every day and to eliminate workplace injuries through unwavering commitment, innovation and accountability.”