Safety & Training

Whatcom County Public Works recognizes the inherent risks that employees potentially face in the workplace and in the field.  Through the promotion, education, and continuous oversight of the workplace safety of our employees, the Safety and Training Office works aggressively to mitigate the potential of employee injury and/or damage to county and public property.

Primary Responsibilities

• Offer a variety of safety-related training programs.
• Required state and federal certifications.
• General workplace safety practices.
• Work closely with both supervisors and employees in the development of employee training programs.
• Stay aware of changing technologies and new and different demands upon employees. 

Bridges Safety-Related Issues

• Review all department incidents/accidents and maintains a database history.
• Bridge safety-related issues between employees and managers.
• Understand the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Washington Industrial Safety and Health Administration (WISHA), the  Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), and other standards.
• Monitor employee safety compliance within the work area.  
• In the event of injury, the office works closely with the employee to ensure appropriate support as well as properly processing the required paperwork

Review Public Works Claims

• Responsible for the review of all Public Works claims.
• Works with the Chief Civil Prosecuting Attorney in the review and determination of fault.
• Develops educational awareness of risks to avoid.
• Develops worksite practices to prevent future claims.

Liaison With Emergency Operations Center

• Public Works' liaison within the Emergency Safety Operations Center.
• Ensure planned communication and coordination of effort occurs between Public Works and other public and private entities.
• Conduct community outreach to solicit volunteer support for disaster emergency response.
• Create a positive link between Whatcom County Public Works and the community.