11 | WSPS.CA/AnnualReport
Looking to the future at Tenaris
As a leading manufacturer and supplier of steel pipe products and services for the energy
industry—an industry fraught with economic, environmental, and human risk—Tenaris takes
its role as a health and safety leader very seriously. They also work hard to stay ahead of
the curve.
When the oil industry started experiencing the current downturn, Tenaris took advantage of
the found time to confirm that they have the right people assigned to the right jobs. With
help from WSPS, they have completed ergonomic and cognitive job assessments for all
positions in their Sault Ste. Marie facility.
Shannan Boston, a senior health and safety consultant with WSPS, says they are also
forward-thinking when it comes to involving others in the community. "Local health
practitioners are invited to tour the facility and are introduced to the organization's safety
expectations and policies, so they have a frame of reference if employees come to them
with issues."
Rich Poirier, Health and Safety Manager, Eastern Canada says it is important to Tenaris'
senior leadership team that employees feel secure. He also notes that maintaining a healthy
and safe workplace culture is a shared commitment. "Employees are very involved; health
and safety isn't a top-down priority."
The drive to be health and safety leaders extends beyond their organization. Tenaris is a
long-time sponsor of the WSPS Partners in Prevention Regional Conferences, and Poirier
is a member of the WSPS Volunteer Council. He also volunteers at events and assists with
young worker training in schools.
Poirier values the relationship with WSPS and says that they are more than a vendor.
HEALTH & SAFETY CULTURE
They are an important part of the community, and they are strong
partners. WSPS helps us with training and conferences and in
building a healthy workplace culture.
