Programs implemented and maintained at the MDTA include, but are not limited to, employee injury case management and reporting, vehicle accident investigations and reviews, workers compensation, driver improvement training, drug and alcohol testing, and safety inspections and investigations. The MDTA has a dedicated office that develops, implements, monitors, and manages all health and safety programs at the agency in cooperation with its operational offices to bring a truly comprehensive, intelligent, and positive influence to the workplace. Health and safety professionals, working under the direction of executive management, always are available for consultation on complex problems, conducting random and scheduled inspections, planning and executing training programs, and working alongside all employees to promote the most healthful and safe workplace possible. Environmental and Safety Committees Environmental and Safety Committees (ESCs) are employee-led committees, located at each MDTA facility, that come together for the common goal of creating and maintaining a safe and environmentally conscious workplace. Employees volunteer as ESC members and attend monthly meetings led by a member of the Office of Environment, Safety and Risk Management. Each facility has a monthly meeting during which various topics are discussed, including environmental and safety training and concerns, safety practices, incidents that have occurred, safety messages, and future program improvements. Members of the ESC also participate in safety inspections and investigations.
HEALTH AND SAFETY The health and safety of MDTA employees is of the utmost importance to the MDTA. In addition to ensuring compliance with all State and local health and safety regulations, the MDTA employs multiple programs, trainings, and procedures that help ensure the holistic management of health and safety for each employee. The MDTA’s 2024 Strategic Plan was developed and is implemented continuously with the health, safety, and well-being of its employees at the forefront. Currently, the MDTA is updating its safety and health commitment statement with the expectation of availability in Q4 of calendar year 2024. Management of Employee Health and Safety The MDTA prides itself on a proactive approach to employee health and safety, including: Providing a healthy and safe working environment for its employees. Ensuring total compliance with federal, State, and local regulations. Prioritization of hazard identification and prevention, aiming to address potential risks before incidents occur. Continuous improvement of safety programs to protect the workforce and enhance overall operations. Active engagement in agency-wide safety outreach efforts, encouraging open communication and collaboration among employees. Department-level safety efforts, based on specific job functions and duties. Training efforts to educate the workforce on safety and health hazards. Compliance The MDTA abides by all federal, State, and local regulations regarding the safety and health of both employees and the public. The most comprehensively referenced of these include, but are not limited to: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910, commonly referred to as OSHA’s General Industry Standard (for facility and maintenance operations) OSHA 29 CFR 1926, commonly referred to as OSHA’s Construction Standard (for construction activities conducted by the MDTA) Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 5 Occupational Safety and Health The MDTA follows news and updates in regulations closely and evaluates applicability to the agency on an ongoing basis. Policies are proposed and developed by the Safety and Risk Management team in cooperation with representatives from all MDTA divisions to achieve alignment across the agency. Policies and procedures are implemented that keep the MDTA not just in compliance but often proactively and above the minimum compliance requirements.
Environmental, Social, and Governance Report 20
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