NAICS Code: 334418, Printed Circuit Assembly (Electronic Assembly) Manufacturing

Company Description:
Electronic Systems, Inc. (ESI) is a full-service contract manufacturer of electronic assemblies, providing a full range of electronics manufacturing services to leading original equipment manufacturers. For over 35 years, ESI has worked with its customers to improve their product quality and costs, serving companies in the industrial, commercial, medical, energy, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) industries.

The Situation
Since its inception, the management team at ESI has understood the value of providing a safe environment for its workers. When ESI learned of OSHA's On-site Consultation Program, administered by South Dakota State University (SDSU), the company jumped at the opportunity to use SDSU's health and safety consultants to assist in its continual improvement efforts. Over the years, SDSU has conducted safety audits and evaluated ESI's policies and procedures, providing constructive feedback and recommendations. The company used this feedback to facilitate improvements needed to provide a workplace free of recognized hazards to all of their workers.

OSHA's consultation services are separate from enforcement and do not result in penalties or citations. The program offers free, confidential safety and health advice to small and medium-sized businesses in all states across the country and several territories, with priority given to high-hazard worksites. Consultants from state agencies or universities work with employers to identify workplace hazards, provide advice on compliance with OSHA standards, and assist in establishing injury and illness prevention programs.

The Solution
In 2014, after several years of collaboration between SDSU and ESI, a plan was generated to fine tune the company's health and safety program with the goal of submitting an application for OSHA Safety and Health Recognition Program (SHARP). SDSU conducted extensive audits of ESI's health and safety program, identifying opportunities for improvements. Air quality and noise hazard auditing was conducted as well. As a result of these audits, improvements to the personal protective equipment program were implemented, and the "near miss" accident reporting procedures were enhanced.

The Impact
By the numbers, the improvement in the overall health and safety program at ESI resulted in an 80-percent reduction in the total recordable case rate and a 100-percent reduction in its days away, restriction, and job transfer rate. ESI's dedication to its employees' health and safety was rewarded in 2015 when the company was accepted into SHARP. Acceptance into OSHA's SHARP is an achievement of status that distinguishes a company among its business peers as an exemplary model of workplace safety and health.

"ESI is proud to receive this recognition. Nevertheless, the management team understands that there is no end to ensuring workplace safety and health," said ESI President Gary Larson. "It is a continual process, and ESI will continue to grow and improve with the help of its dedicated workers."

Additional information about OSHA's On-site Consultation Program and other small business resources is available at www.osha.gov or 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).