Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Drainage and plumbing manufacturer, Wavin, is celebrating over thirteen years – 5,000 days – of no Loss Time Incidents (LTI) at its clay piping production facility Hazlehead, in South Yorkshire.
An LTI is any work-related injury or illness which results in a member of staff being unable to perform duties. Hazlehead employs 150 people making, which are heavy and require firing in a high-temperature kiln, meaning stringent safety measures must be continually upheld and scrutinised.
From the use of robotics and manufacturing tools to ongoing improvements in general structural health of the factory itself, Wavin’s investments in health and safety have enhanced safety at Hazlehead. To further support employees at the site, the manufacturer has also invested in health and safety education to foster a safety-first working culture.
Matt Smyth, site manager, said: “In the manufacturing sector, the average incident rate of nonfatal occupational injuries was 2.8 cases per 100 workers back in 2023. Many sites struggle to go even a year without a lost-time incident, yet we have achieved over 5,000 days – an accomplishment which sets Hazlehead apart.
“This is testament of the strong safety culture, teamwork, and vigilance exercised at Hazlehead which has delivered extraordinary results.”
The milestone was marked with a celebration ceremony held at the Hazlehead site on March 10th in which all employees were invited to join in on celebrations with Janet Sankey, global health & safety director at Wavin also present.
