Eastman Chemical achieves 'best ever' safety rate

RP news wires
Tags: workplace safety, manufacturing

Eastman Chemical Company announced achievement of an historic safety milestone. At year end, Eastman’s company-wide OSHA-Recordable Rate (measure of injuries requiring treatment beyond first aid) was 0.53, which is well below its 2009 target and a “best ever” rate for the company.

Addressing employees, president and CEO Jim Rogers stated, “There are many factors that contribute to such performance, but the most important factor is the commitment that each employee makes to work safely and to watch out for the safety of the other person. The benefits of this safety emphasis extend to our homes and communities, as well.”

Factors that contributed to the outstanding performance include the development and growth of safety initiatives such as behavior-based safety and safety culture assessments; clear communication of safety expectations; sharing of safety information and practices across sites, regions and the company; and a heightened awareness of the importance of working safely.

Senior vice president and chief health, safety, security and environment officer Theresa Lee stated, “On a more personal level, this rate reflects that our co-workers and friends experienced 29 less injuries in 2009 than in 2008. In light of the various significant events and distractions that we faced in 2009, this excellent safety performance is a testimony to the resolve and focus of Eastman people.”

In celebration and in honor of each employee’s commitment to safety, the Eastman Chemical Company Foundation is contributing $50,000 to UNICEF to support the orphaned children of Haiti.

Eastman’s chemicals, fibers and plastics are used as key ingredients in products that people use every day. Approximately 10,000 Eastman employees around the world blend technical expertise and innovation to deliver practical solutions. The company is committed to finding sustainable business opportunities within the diverse markets it serves. A global company headquartered in Kingsport, Tenn., Eastman had 2009 sales of $5 billion.