Number of employees: 13

Sega Sammy Creations USA Inc. is a gaming machine manufacturing company whose products cater to casino operators across Nevada and California. After attending OSHA training courses, the company created a written workplace safety program. On February 12, 2020, the company contacted Nevada Safety Consultation and Training Section (SCATS) to review their written program and conduct a safety visit of the office and warehouse.

During the Consultation visit, the SCATS consultant identified hazards in the office area and the warehouse such as multiple extension cords being plugged in together and not using all appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for forklift battery refilling. The consultant immediately notified the company’s Director of Operations of these hazards, which were promptly corrected. After this first Consultation visit, the company was able to fine tune its safety measurements and written programs.

The company next started working to achieve the goal of Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) and was approved for SHARP recognition on March 5, 2020. Working with the On-Site Consultation Program and becoming SHARP was key to nurturing and strengthening workplace safety and health culture at Sega Sammy Creations USA. As part of this process, the company also formed a safety committee with members from all positions, reflecting the company’s commitment to safety and health at all levels.

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 an exemption 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.

“Being a part of the SHARP program 1.5 year after opening our office in Las Vegas, Nevada was a way for us to set the highest standard of our company culture for health and safety when the company was still new,” said Aiko Hatano, Human Resources Manager at Sega Sammy Creations USA. “Our collaborative efforts between management and line staff to achieve SHARP have nurtured teamwork and a sense of pride within our employees to work in the safe environment that each of them contributed to and supported.”

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.