In a remarkable feat of dedication and teamwork, Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK has reached a staggering milestone of 500,000 hours without a single lost time incident (LTI) at the North Kyle wind farm project in Scotland. This achievement is not only a testament to the company’s commitment to safety but also highlights the significance of a collaborative culture in the construction and energy sectors. The North Kyle wind farm, with its 220MW capacity and 49 Vestas turbines, represents a significant investment of £300 million by Brockwell Energy, and it’s clear that safety is a priority from the get-go.
An LTI, which refers to any injury that prevents an employee from performing their regular duties, can have far-reaching implications for both the workforce and project timelines. With up to 250 personnel on site at any given time, maintaining a zero-LTI record is no small feat. Jones Bros has implemented a robust “Together Safer” culture, which encourages everyone on site—from employees to subcontractors—to actively challenge unsafe practices. This proactive approach fosters an environment where safety is a shared responsibility, and individuals feel empowered to speak up when they see potential hazards.
The initiative has proven effective, as evidenced by the approximately 2,000 Incident Prevention Cards (IPCs) submitted. These cards are not just paperwork; they represent a collective commitment to safety and the wellbeing of every individual on site. Jonathan Maitland, the project manager for Jones Bros, highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating, “I’d like to congratulate everyone that has worked on the site for contributing to this by following our guidelines and joining with us to promote this safety culture to make sure everyone gets home safe and well to their loved ones.” This sentiment resonates deeply in an industry where the stakes are high and safety is paramount.
Brockwell Energy’s project manager, Richard Buckland, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the diligence and hard work of everyone involved. He noted that the site’s natural state and historical use posed unique challenges, yet the team’s commitment to safety and efficiency has led to this significant milestone. The successful completion of the final concrete pour for the turbine foundations in under 12 months, despite adverse weather conditions, is a clear indication of what can be accomplished when safety and teamwork are prioritized.
Celebrating this milestone with a BBQ on site is more than just a reward; it symbolizes a culture of recognition and appreciation that can drive further success. In an industry often scrutinized for safety records, Jones Bros and Brockwell Energy are setting a benchmark that could inspire other companies to adopt similar proactive safety cultures. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the lessons learned from the North Kyle wind farm project could very well shape future developments, encouraging more firms to prioritize safety as a core value and not just a checkbox on a compliance form. The ripple effects of such a culture could lead to a safer, more efficient industry, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders involved.
