Safety isn’t just a checklist item at Columbia Fruit Processing, it’s a way of doing business. Their safety committee is out on the floor regularly, talking with employees, doing inspections, and making sure concerns are heard and taken care of quickly. And when something comes up, they don’t just patch it, they do their best to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Training is a big part of what they do. They offer regular, hands-on training that’s specific to the work each person is doing. They are purposeful about giving every employee the tools and knowledge to stay safe, no matter the task.

One of the things that really stands out is how approachable their leadership team is. Employees feel comfortable speaking up about safety, and when they do, they are heard. It is a team effort. When incidents happen, the goal isn’t to point fingers, it’s to learn and make things safer for everyone.

Employees deal with a lot of potential hazards, but they meet those challenges head-on with planning, teamwork, and a whole lot of heart. They have created a culture where safety is everyone’s job, and they do it incredibly well.

Columbia Fruit Processing holds everyone accountable. PPE is worn, unsafe practices are addressed, and everyone takes responsibility. Safety is part of the everyday conversation, and management leads the way by making sure that message is shared clearly, in a way everyone understands.

They have a “See Something, Say Something” program that needs to be acknowledged. Not only are people encouraged to speak up, but they are also recognized through drawings every few months with fun prizes like swag, candy, gift cards, and more. It is a great way to keep safety at the forefront and make it something people feel proud of.