Join WCMA Health & Safety Group for Business, Worker Protection Strategies

Registration is open now at WisCheeseMakers.org for the next meeting of the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association’s (WCMA) popular Health & Safety Group, set for June 7 from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (CT).

“Studies show that companies with robust safety programs enjoy higher productivity and employee retention rates, boosted employee morale, and – most importantly – fewer incidents of injury in their workplaces,” said Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy.  “WCMA members understand that consistent investments in employee safety are both the smart and the right thing to do for their teams, and we’re thrilled with their engagement in our Health & Safety Group.”

The group’s June meeting features an opening presentation from Chuck Palmer and Bethany McCurdy of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, focused on practical strategies to prevent employee health and safety lawsuits, from creation and implementation of safety protocols to maintenance of constructive, open lines of communication with staff and regulators. Later in the meeting, a panel of dairy processing professionals will share their insights from inspections related to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s (OSHA) new Local Emphasis Program for food processors. Attendees will also appreciate an in-depth presentation on noise protection practices in dairy processing plants from Danica Harrier of WisCon, the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s occupational safety consulting service.

“This four-hour block is chock full of learning – and opportunities to connect with your peers in industry safety endeavors.  We look forward to bringing this engaged and enthusiastic group together,” said Sweeney.

All WCMA members – including both dairy processor and supplier members, regardless of their background or experience in employee safety – are welcome to participate in the meeting in-person in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, or online via Zoom.  Those who join the meeting in-person will also enjoy a networking lunch from 12:00-12:30 p.m. (CT).

The WCMA Health & Safety Group meets regularly to cover a wide range of issues related to worker safety in dairy processing, guided by member feedback. Open to both dairy processor and supplier members, the group offers a platform for discussion, insights from respected industry experts, and opportunities to share ideas with colleagues.

Those with questions or suggestions for future meeting topics may contact WCMA’s Rebekah Sweeney at rsweeney@wischeesemakers.org.