Peragon Team Achieves SHARP
Company: Peragon Enterprises, Inc. - Shell Lake
Location: Shell Lake, Wisconsin
NAICS Code: 336214-Travel Trailer and Camper Manufacturing
Peragon Enterprises, Inc., an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) located in Shell Lake, Wisconsin, crafts factory-direct retractable tonneau truck bed covers. Peragon is committed to continuous improvement across its core cultural values. With safety and compliance being its number one core value, Peragon reached out to the Wisconsin Consultation Program (WisCon) in 2016 for a safety and health consultation visit.
During their initial walkthrough, WisCon consultants identified the need for an emergency action plan along with training and distinct alarm signals, personal protective equipment (PPE) and training, proper labeling and training on chemicals, sprinklers in spray booths, and correct guarding on saw blades. Consultants also found high levels of noise exposure. Peragon promptly corrected all hazards identified by establishing and implementing written policies, robust training programs, and routine maintenance and safety checks. Peragon also relocated its chemical storage and obtained proper PPE and provided PPE training.
WisCon also assessed employee exposures to numerous atmospheric contaminants. The company strives to maintain all exposures below legal and recommended limits, and no exposures over action levels were found. "It means a lot to each team member to know that not only is the team working hard to keep each other safe today, we are working hard to ensure our lungs are safe thirty years from today," said Matthew Johnson, Director of Operations.
The company has also implemented team-wide engagement in monthly training sessions, daily inspection of work spaces, and monthly inspections of the plant. In addition, Peragon implemented reporting systems for injuries and near misses, and implemented simulated situations for training purposes. The partnership between Peragon and WisCon continues to grow and mature Peragon's culture of safety and compliance.
Peragon Enterprises, Inc. was recognized with Safety and Health Recognition Program (SHARP) status in July of 2020. SHARP acknowledges small and medium-sized businesses that have used OSHA On-Site Consultation Program services and operate exemplary workplace safety and health programs. Small businesses that achieve SHARP status receive a deferral from OSHA or the State Plan programmed inspections for the period that the SHARP designation is valid. Acceptance of a worksite into SHARP is an achievement that identifies the employer as a model for occupational safety and health among its business peers.
As of 2020, the company continues to have an injury and illness rate with days away and restricted time (DART) lower than the industry average of 3.6.
Companies interested in SHARP can contact their local OSHA On-Site Consultation program to discuss details and schedule an on-site safety and health evaluation. To locate the On-Site Consultation program nearest you, call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or visit www.osha.gov/consultation.