Columbia Forest Products Manufacturing Plant Celebrates Safety

Trumann, Arkansas - The Columbia Forest Products hardwood plywood manufacturing plant in Trumann, AR has reached a major milestone with respect to employee safety: Five years without a single lost-time incident.

"We are extremely proud of this accomplishment," Rick Hammers, plant manager, stated. "On January 21st, 2013 we officially marked five years with no lost-time incidents. This milestone demonstrates our entire team's continued commitment to a safe workplace and safe work practices,” he added.

Barbara McClung, human resources manager, explained that the successful endeavor represented a challenge for all employees. “This accomplishment was not left up to chance, but has taken five years to achieve,” McClung emphasized.

The management at the Columbia facility has worked to create an environment where employees identify and raise concerns about at-risk behaviors and unsafe conditions that could cause injuries. “It is our employees’ commitment to safety and the safety of others that has enabled us to reach this important milestone,” McClung noted.

The Trumann plant is one of seven hardwood plywood production facilities owned and operated by Columbia Forest Products in North America. The plant was acquired by Columbia in 1986.

A lost-time incident is defined as an injury that results from working in an industrial or manufacturing facility. Companies attempt to minimize such incidents by establishing safety guidelines and procedures, and by training their employees to use equipment safely. These precautions help prevent accidents and injuries while promoting a healthier and more satisfying work environment.

About Columbia Forest Products

Founded in 1957, Columbia Forest Products is North America’s largest manufacturer of hardwood plywood and hardwood veneer, a leader in sustainable forestry, and innovator of formaldehyde-free PureBond® technology.

Columbia’s decorative interior veneers and panels are used in cabinetry, furniture, architectural millwork and commercial fixtures.

Employee-owned and based in Greensboro, NC, Columbia Forest Products employs more than 2,000 people. It operates facilities throughout the United States and Canada along with an operational network that spans the globe.

For more information, visit http://www.cfpwood.com.

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