Hensel Phelps, one of the largest general construction contractors in the United States, has been honored with the title of the safest construction company in the nation for 2024. The recognition comes from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), which named Hensel Phelps the recipient of the top construction safety and health program award. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the company's commitment to safety in the construction industry.

Health and safety remain paramount in the construction sector, a field with significant inherent risks. The AGC's annual ranking, the Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA), evaluates and celebrates companies that prioritize occupational safety and health management, along with risk control. This year, the program identified 66 other companies that were also awarded for their efforts in promoting safer work environments.

Todd Roberts, senior vice president of the AGC and president of ERS Inc. in Jackson, Mississippi, explained, “Through these awards, we are seeking to identify the most effective tactics companies are using to address and improve construction safety and health. By finding and honouring these safety and health solutions, we hope to encourage other firms to explore and adopt them as appropriate.” His statement emphasizes the critical role these awards play in shaping safety standards across the industry.

Hensel Phelps stood out as the grand award winner, selected from 23 first-place winners across six specific occupational divisions. The judging process for the awards involves a comprehensive review by a panel of five independent safety and health professionals from the construction industry. These experts evaluate the effectiveness and innovation of safety programs, ensuring that the selected companies represent the highest standards in construction safety.

Roberts further elaborated on the structure of the awards, noting, “There are multiple winners because the awards are distributed for several divisions and categories, based on the amount and type of work performed.” He also pointed out that the final judging took place during the AGC’s annual convention in Columbus, Ohio.

The recognition of Hensel Phelps and other award recipients not only underscores the importance of safety in the construction industry but also sets a benchmark for other companies to strive toward. By publicly honoring these outstanding safety practices, the AGC aims to inspire wider adoption of best practices, ultimately advancing health and safety standards across the sector.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the emphasis on comprehensive safety programs remains a critical factor in reducing injuries and fatalities. With these awards, companies like Hensel Phelps set the bar for others to follow, ensuring a safer future for all those working in the field.

Originally Reported By Andy Brown in Construction Briefing.