At Eastman Cooke, safety is more than a priority—it’s part of our identity.
From May 5th through 9th, we’re proud to recognize Construction Safety Week—an opportunity to reflect on what safety really means on the jobsite. This year’s theme, “All in Together,” reminds us that building safer job sites takes a shared commitment from everyone involved. At Eastman Cooke, that spirit of teamwork is central to how we operate.
Safety here goes beyond PPE. Through our WorkSmart System, every project is built on thoughtful planning, clear communication, and proactive safety measures. From the ground up, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to prioritize safety—because it’s not just policy, it’s people.
Superintendent Steven Dodge captures this idea perfectly. “Site safety is always at the forefront of my mind on the jobsite. It needs to be instilled and driven into everyone who steps foot on site. This is not a ‘one-and-done’ task. As a field professional, it is your responsibility to ensure safety protocols are followed at all times. Nothing you do on the jobsite is as important as going home to your family.”
Steven also emphasizes the value of preparation. “Proactive measures are always more effective than reactive ones. I have the conversations with crews and site personnel before these issues occur, so if they happen, we are prepared and can act calmly and safely.” He leads weekly toolbox talks that reflect current field conditions and evolving safety trends, helping keep safety top of mind at all times.
Eugene Hermanski, also a Superintendent, echoed similar priorities. “My approach to safety revolves around proactive planning and continuous communication. I believe in conducting thorough risk assessments before any project begins and ensuring all team members are fully aware of potential hazards and the procedures in place to mitigate them.”
For Eugene, Eastman Cooke’s safety culture stands out because of its sense of accountability. “Every team member is empowered to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their colleagues. This creates a collaborative environment where safety is a shared priority.”
Superintendent Ray Ruggiano adds, “I happen to end all my internal emails, with ‘Safety Matters’. It is not signatory to one person or trade, it is the ECA way. Safety begins at home and should be with us all the time.”
As we celebrate Construction Safety Week, we thank our team for putting safety first every single day. Your dedication is what makes Eastman Cooke a safer, stronger place to work—and a leader in the field.