NAICS Code 424510, Grain elevators merchant wholesalers

On June 28, 2016, The Scoular Company’s facility in Helena, Arkansas, received the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) prestigious Safety and Health Achievement Program (SHARP) award for its exemplary commitment to workplace safety.

The Scoular Company – North Plant of Helena, Arkansas, operates a grain elevator. In 2009, Scoular staff contacted the Arkansas Department of Labor (ADOL), Safety Division, OSHA Consultation Division and inquired about SHARP. SHARP recognizes small business employers who have used OSHA’s On-site Consultation Program services and operate an exemplary injury and illness prevention program. The company initially achieved SHARP status in 2012, and its certification was renewed in 2014. Scoular’s SHARP renewal was extended through June 2018.

Scoular wanted to strengthen its existing safety culture at its Helena facility. Company staff recognized that an effective method for accomplishing this would be to engage health and safety consultants to provide hazard assessment and abatement training for employees. After working with the Arkansas Department of Labor (ADOL), Safety Division, OSHA Consultation Division, Scoular’s workplace safety and health hazards were abated; its recordkeeping improved; and employee involvement in the safety process was 100 percent.

Since becoming a member of the SHARP Program, Scoular’s safety bar was raised. For over 5 years, no injuries or illnesses have occurred at this facility. Daily tool box meetings are held with hourly employees volunteering to be presenters. As a member of the Arkansas SHARP & Voluntary Protection Program Association, the company is now part of an outreach group for SHARP and serves as a model for worksite safety and health.

OSHA's On-site Consultation Program is completely voluntary. These 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. Additional information about OSHA’s On-site Consultation Program is available at www.osha.gov or 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).