Materials Management has not had a motor vehicle incident in 5 years. They also received the Outstanding Organization Award for their performance in the 2025 Truck Driver Safety Demonstration.
When you’re doing something right, others want to learn from you. That’s exactly why Y-12 Transportation Safety recently observed work at the Material Acquisition and Control (MAC) Center.
“The Materials Management organization has not had a motor vehicle incident (MVI) in 5 years,” said Jared T., Transportation Safety manager. “That’s a good record for any group, but when you consider the mileage that group travels each year, it’s exceptional. We wanted to learn about their safety culture, so we could share that information with other groups.”
The MAC drivers use a systematic approach when routing their orders. Before they leave, they always inspect the vehicle, making sure it has the necessary safety equipment, such as load securement straps, a weight sticker, and edge protectors. They stay on schedule, making sure that once they leave the MAC Center, they stay focused on their mission; supervisors do their best not to add stops after the driver leaves so drivers are not overwhelmed.
Communication drives action
According to Alex M., material clerk, communication is key to maintaining Materials Management’s safety record. From weekly reports to reminders to complete daily routines, MAC keeps lines of communication open among the team. They also like to share outside experiences to emphasize the importance of safely performing daily tasks.
Safety is a continuous focus in all communications. Melissa R., Materials Management manager, agrees. “We talk about safety daily in the crew brief and monthly in our MAC Monthly Safety meeting,” she said.
A quarterly culture meeting with union stewards and representatives from all across the site helps create consistency and continuous improvement. Best practices from one area can often be applied to other areas on site, thus providing a means to raise standards and minimize risks from hazardous conditions.
The team, including management, maintains open communications. Managers also emphasize the importance of everyone taking care of themselves and each other.
Brandon H. tool crib manager, stated, “Safe expediting starts with clear communication. The tool crib team mimics best practices followed by the MAC team. By prioritizing safety first and serving our customers with care, everyone goes home safely.”
Material clerk Brad L. appreciates the team’s focus on safety. “Being able to take your time without being rushed helps us perform the work safely,” he said.
Building a safety culture
The focus on safety started before the MAC Center began operations according to Ken F., director of Logistics and Materials Management. He said, “Prior to opening, we maintained an action item list for continuous improvements that were focused on safety. We bring everyone together to emphasize safety at the MAC.”
Ken said the entire move to the MAC Center was focused on safety. “Watching a semi back up 100 yards to the dock, which was adjacent to the office entry, motivated me to find a better option,” he said.
Going 5 years with no MVIs is certainly a testimony to the employees’ focus on safety, but Melissa says the safety culture goes much deeper. “Ken makes sure we have great equipment, including replacing older equipment that is less safe or efficient,” she said. “The clerks are proud of their equipment, and they take pains to maintain it.”
Melissa said getting the MAC Center required challenging the status quo, and Ken’s ability to make the business case for change has been a driving force in their success. “He’s willing to try new things, including letting them rent equipment to test it,” she said. “The employees see action coming from their suggestions, which makes them eager to submit other improvements.”
“You’d think it would level off, but it continues to get better every single year,” said Ken. “Some of the biggest changes made on the floor were made by the employees themselves. They don’t rest on their laurels.”
Proactive culture reaps dividends
“It’s the little things that increase pride for the drivers,” said Steve B., delivery manager.
To ensure team members’ safety, large fans in the warehouse keep workers cool during warm weather. They also practice good housekeeping to enhance safety and focus and have the right tools and equipment for the job at hand. The team also actively supports “see something, say something,” creating an environment where there is no fear regarding speaking up.
The drivers are also proactive. When driving, they will radio in anything they observe around the plant, reporting any items that need attention. They also typically have spotters when backing in and out of docks and parking places. The extra set of eyes ensures any hazards are identified before an accident occurs.
Jared T. hopes to expand Materials Management’s positive safety culture across the site in 2026 by focusing on how to “make every trip count.”