Santiago has dedicated his career to safety. Thirteen years ago, he began overseeing production processes at a furniture factory in Ecuador, where he witnessed the critical importance of accident prevention firsthand. Motivated by this, he pursued a master’s degree in Operations and Occupational Safety, delving deeper into international certifications. Eventually, he moved to the United States, where he now resides with his family—a devoted husband and father of two. Santiago firmly believes in the power of effective communication to engage workers. Outside of work, he finds solace in music, literature, and nature. Known for his sociable and friendly demeanor, Santiago boasts a wealth of experience across diverse economic sectors, committed to averting accidents and occupational illnesses.
1. What is the most unusual safety hazard you have encountered?
Within the construction industry, numerous risk factors can signal potential workplace accidents. One unusual risk, based on my personal experience, is heat exhaustion. As humans, we frequently place trust in ourselves without acknowledging that nature can occasionally induce significant fatigue among workers.
2. If you could invent a new security device or tool, what would it be?
Communication plays a crucial role in safety, and possessing strong leadership undoubtedly serves as an effective tool for fostering a safe and successful team. If I were to develop a technological tool or device, it would enable me to gauge the staff’s behaviour toward safety protocols. As human beings, our emotions and attitudes often fluctuate, making it essential to understand the team’s emotional state.
3. What’s your favorite safety slogan or slogan?
That’s an excellent question. Throughout my years of experience, my favorite slogan has always been “safety first”; I firmly believe that without safety, everything else is jeopardized. Companies have undergone significant transformations, recognizing that the well-being of the worker is paramount. Without safety and health, productivity suffers. Our company, OSR, is a pioneer in prioritizing and safeguarding its workers, and I’m delighted to talk more about it!
4. Have you ever had a “safety superhero” moment where you stepped in to prevent an accident?
Every day, I acknowledge the significance of observing events as a safety professional. Based on my personal experience, there are incidents that require immediate correction to prevent them from escalating into accidents. In construction, using tools and working at heights pose inherent risks. Even lifting loads onto roofs carries its own dangers. Often, workers may not fully grasp the hazards they face. However, as an accident prevention professional, I promptly intervene to rectify such situations before any mishaps occur. I engage with the worker to ensure they understand the risks and prevent them from recurring.
5. Do you have any peculiar habits or rituals related to safety practices?
Before beginning work, I always place my trust in God; spirituality holds great importance in my life. My family is my utmost priority, and I firmly believe in seeking blessings for health and protection from a higher power.
6. If you were a safety mascot, what would your costume look like?
I’d choose a rhinoceros mascot for its toughness, strength, and tenacity. I’ve always admired this animal because, like a rhinoceros, my life has had its share of ups and downs, yet I’ve persisted in pursuing my goals. I believe in giving my all, and through hard work and discipline, much can be accomplished in life. This, I believe, is the best example I can pass on to my children.
7. What is your preferred method for reminding your forgetful colleagues of safety procedures without being too serious?
Effective communication is key, along with strong leadership and a team that trusts me to identify and address potential dangers. As part of significant OSR projects, I always strive to ensure things run smoothly, often assisting or coaching staff to enhance their efficiency. A safety professional must understand staff behavior and prioritize prevention over regret. This underscores the importance of maintaining direct and effective communication with both workers and project leaders, reflecting my ongoing dedication to OSR.