Improper crane use can lead to irreparable damage, which is why hoist operators must be properly trained. In this presentation, Randy Gardner of Western Maryland Safety Consultants goes over a detailed safety checklist to avoid major mistakes.
This presentation was originally part of NARSA/IDEA’s 2023 Spring Conference hosted by Empire Radiator in Rochester, New York.
This presentation was originally part of NARSA/IDEA’s 2023 Spring Conference hosted by Empire Radiator in Rochester, New York.
Speaker Bio:
Randal “Randy” Gardner has been in the safety field most of his professional life since graduating from college. He began his safety career working in the poultry industry. After only two years, he was recruited by a headhunter to go to work in the steel industry in Eastern Pennsylvania. Yes, he went from working with “Chickens to Turkeys.” And did he have his hands full…. Working with a number of unions in one location, he was able to implement various programs that decreased lost time work and recordable injuries and workers compensation costs by over 50%. This was achieved by aggressive claims management, modified duty programs, and implementing a safety program entitled, “We have a steak /stake in Safety.” However, due to the impact of cheap steel from overseas, his division was closing and he had the opportunity to move to the corporate headquarters in Ohio and graciously declined.
Randy then tried his hand in entrepreneurship and purchased an Auntie Anne’s pretzel franchise. After 3 years, he sold his store and was hired by the HR/Payroll Company that provided him those services. As the MidAtlantic Risk Manager, his responsibilities involved working with over 200 small to mid-sized companies throughout the East Coast. From laundry facilities to general contractors and everything in between, he ensured that the companies were providing a “Safe Work Environment.” This was accomplished through training and education and a lot of traveling.
During his time there, he had numerous clients that provided services for the mining industry that were receiving fines while working on mine property. After acquiring the required experience and training, he became an MSHA instructor. In March of 2010, he decided to go on his own, and Western Maryland Consulting was in business. Currently, he consults with small to midsize companies providing safety services. In addition, he is contracted by Dominion Energy to oversee safety responsibilities on various projects. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and his passion for safety to his clients and anyone who will listen. Randy and his wife Tamra live in McHenry, Maryland and have two children who are both graduates of Penn State college.