Grain elevator employees learn grain rescue techniques at Kennewick, Wash. Local Safety Support Member cooperative customers of CHS have access to their own specialized risk managers through the Safety Resource Alliance (SRA) program offered by Ag States Group. The CHS full-service risk management unit hires and trains safety and compliance specialists who work on-site at allied cooperatives that have pooled their resources as an SRA unit. “Safety directors help with regulatory paperwork, employee training, facility and equipment reviews, and they are there to help in emergencies,” says Mike Tatman, SRA program manager, Ag States Group. SRA safety specialists are backed by a network of support staff and training facilities, he adds. “We provide a person who is 100 percent devoted to safety and compliance,” adds Tatman. “That allows cooperative managers to focus on other areas of their business that need attention.” D “Day-to-day operations of CHS businesses require a here-and-now safety focus by employees and managers,” says Mark Daniels, director of health and safety. “Recognizing potential risks is a critical first step in managing them. “Our CHS business unit safety leaders average more than 20 years of safety experience. The system has another 75 to 100 full-and part-time employees who support safety administration,” he adds. “Through their efforts, our safety record continues to improve and provides a competitive advantage to our businesses.” Many of the businesses CHS is involved in are heavily regulated due to heightened risk. The company has adopted safeguards that go beyond regulations. For example, CHS is implementing an enhanced fleet safety program that will create additional accountability for safe operation of commercial and noncommercial motor vehicles. Drivers follow policy requirements and routine performance monitoring. “The safety of our employees and our communities is a core value at CHS,” says Daniels. “Our management team is sincerely committed to safeguarding our employees and the communities we operate in.” Even with this focus on prevention, preparing for emergencies is critical. Emergency plans at each CHS facility detail response measures designed to reduce injuries and damages. Each crisis management plan ensures the right people are informed as soon as possible so recovery decisions are made promptly. Putting Out Fires Before They Begin CHS safety and emergency preparedness training comes in a variety of forms, sometimes involving communities that are home to its businesses. For example, Prairie Lakes Coop, based at Starbuck, Minn., offered propane fire training for area volunteer fire departments earlier this year. Steve Gorder, energy division manager for Prairie Lakes, served nearly 30 years with his local fire department, the last 11 as chief. Even though CHSINC.COM 24 September/October 2009