Safety Halo – Hard Hat: Safety Director Wins Coveted Award

Dominic Pope, Safety Professional of the Year 2024

A safety program means nothing without a leader who cares and eleven years ago, we hired the best in the business. Dominic Pope, Safety Director since 2013, earned this prestigious award because of a long history of making measurable differences. Chesapeake Region Safety Council’s John Lanigan Safety Professional of the Year Award is a coveted marker in a safety professional’s career, for which Dominic has diligently put in the work every single day on the job.

Based on 4 key factors, it takes more than filling out a form to win this award. Dominic’s nomination included stunning letters of recommendation from Gaines and Company President, Vice Presidents, Safety Manager and Superintendent, a detailed report of his specific contributions to safety within the company and the community as well as evidence of company initiatives and awards that Dominic has pursued over time.

CRSC President, Dave Madaras, presenting Dominic with the Safety Professional of the Year Award.

Words Into Action

As Safety Director for 300 employees across Maryland and North Carolina, Dominic oversees all safety initiatives, manages insurance claims and ensures DOT/FMSCA compliance for the +150-vehicle fleet. He performs routine safety inspections following the 1926 CFR and 1910 OSHA Industry Standards and oversees all internal company training, accident investigations and new driver verifications as well as training, orientation and record-keeping for all new hires and employees.

Dominic with David Gaines, VP of Gaines and Company

Dominic has built a career around measurable improvement since the day Gaines and Company hired him:

• In his first year with Gaines’ MD office, he meticulously updated training policies and implemented goals, such as every employee earning OSHA 10 or 30 (achieved).
• As a result of these efforts, auto, workers’ comp and general liability claims were reduced by almost 75% after his first year.
• He identified a gap in eye protection protocols which had been causing increased eye-related injuries. He researched and implemented improved eye-wear and standards that noticeably reduced injuries.
• Dominic designed and implemented the Safety Excellence Program within the company, which awards a standout employee for exceedingly safe practices each quarter with public recognition, a certificate and Safety Bucks to use in the online merchandise store. All quarterly awardees are eligible for the Year-End Safety Excellence Award recognition. This has changed the trajectory of the safety program, with employees now proactively reporting safety concerns.
• He implemented strict 811 processes with the help of superintendents, going almost 8 years damage free.
• As Safety Chairman for the Associated Utility Contractors Association (2016-2022), he has trained over 500 individuals in OSHA safety protocols. He is a certified instructor for a wide range of safety courses, including OSHA 10/30/500/501 and NSC’s CPR/First Aid/AED.

“And most importantly, to my wife – your love and encouragement are my constant source of strength. There’s no world in which I could take on this job without you by my side.” – Excerpt from Dominic’s acceptance speech

Letter Excerpts

“His contributions and influence within the safety industry exceed that of an employee doing a job; Dominic shows up every day with clear intentions to improve the lives of those around him.” – Tommy Trent, Southeast Regional Safety Manager

“For Dominic, it is not a job as much as it is a calling.” – W. Lee Gaines, Jr., President

“Beyond his professional achievements, Dominic is a person of integrity and character. He demonstrates a rare combination of technical proficiency and interpersonal skills.” – Mike Soul, Superintendent

“He is always approachable and willing to share his knowledge, making him a valuable resource to every crew member, and at times even makes the job fun!” – L. Myrton Gaines II, Vice President

“He wants our crew members to be confident no matter what situation they face.” – David Gaines, Vice President

About Chesapeake Region Safety Council

Established in 1923 and offering services across the Mid-Atlantic region, CRSC’s mission is to Educate and Influence People to Prevent Accidental Injury and Death. A private, non-profit, non-governmental public service organization, they provide training to over 15,000 people each year in safety practices to reduce disabling injuries and save lives with safety training and consultation. CRSC is the Lead Partner of the Mid Atlantic OTI (OSHA Training Institute) Education Center.

The awards ceremony was held in Baltimore, MD, in June 2024.

Gaines and Company Site Development is a full-service site development company specializing in underground utilities, grading, excavating, erosion controls, and road work. With 70 years of experience, the organization serves home builders and developers, general contractors, and military installations, as well as state, federal and municipal authorities, throughout Maryland, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and Delaware.