State officials award La-Z-Boy safety record
The company exceeded 4 million hours worked without a lost workday
La-Z-Boy Siloam Springs was recognized on Thursday by the State Department of Labor and Arkansas Worker’s Compensation Commission for achieving more than 4 million hours worked without a lost-time injury.
The manufacturing plant achieved 4 million hours of work on Oct. 14, 2016, according to Kevin Harmon, general manager of La-Z-Boy Siloam Springs. The 4 million hours began on Dec. 10, 2010.
In addition, the Siloam Springs manufacturing plant, which employs 383 people, is very near six consecutive years without a serious workplace injury, Harmon said.
“Both of these achievements are all-time records in the 43year history of the plant,” said Harmon. “Our employees are committed to supporting a safe work environment and hold each other accountable for safe work practices.”
Ralph Hudson, deputy director of the Arkansas Department of Labor, and Barbara Webb, CEO of Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission each presented the facility’s staff with awards
during a ceremony on Thursday afternoon.
Hudson said that La-ZBoy is the 49th organization to receive the prestigious 4 million hour safety award since 1976. A company only reaches 4 million hours without a lost-time injury when the employees on the front lines know that small things matter, he said.
“Small things matter and you guys have proven here at La-Z-Boy that you get it… Safety is a long journey. Keep up the good work,” Hudson said.
Webb also congratulated La-Z-Boy for its safety achievements. She said that safety is a culture and noted that a safe and healthy workplace is vital for employees.
State Rep. Robin Lundstrum (R-87) presented a proclamation from the Arkansas House of Representatives commending La-ZBoy for their achievements. Lundstrum said that it takes a team to achieve 4 million hours of work without a losttime injury, and noted that La-Z-Boy showed a great example of teamwork.
Representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Tom Cotton and U.S. Senator John Boozman also presented LaZ-Boy with commendations, and city board member Brad Burns read a proclamation from Mayor John Turner’s office, declaring Oct. 27, 2016, to be La-Z-Boy Day in Siloam Springs.
“My career as a leader in manufacturing has spanned 31 years across several states and companies, and never before have I been associated with such a fine group of safety conscious, hardworking people,” Harmon said. “We are proud to join such an elite group of safe workplaces within the State of Arkansas as our journey continues towards the next milestone.”