Gerry Mendek Steps Up
As GLFEA Safety Director
Gerald T. Mendek, safety coordinator for MBM Fabricators & Erectors of Romulus, has been named the first safety director of the Great Lakes Fabricators & Erectors Association.
"Over the past few years we've been working with our members to enhance and expand the safety training of their
employees," Jim Walker, the GLFEA's executive director said. "Mendek will advance this program even further, especially in our member's incorporation of the Safe2Work system as the central part of the safety training."
Safe2Work incorporates CD-ROM based training with proctored safety certification exams given over the Internet. The GLFEA provided vital input and assistance in its development, partnering on the effort with the Great Lakes Construction Alliance (GLCA). Currently there are 14 difference safety training modules and certification exams associated with Safe2Work, with the certification status of employees made accessible to participating construction employers through secure, password protected website access.
Mendek's construction experience runs deep. A member of Iron Workers Local 25 for 33 years, he has worked all facets of his skilled trade, starting as an apprentice, earning his journeyman status, then advancing through the ranks as foreman, superintendent, and union steward. In addition to his current position, he also has experience working as safety coordinator for Walbridge Aldinger, Detroit.
He has been active on the GLCA's Safety Committee, the Safety Standards Advisory
Committees of the Michigan Occupational Safety & Health Administration, and the American Society of Safety Engineers. In addition to being Safe2Work certified, he is also an OSHA 500 Certified Construction Outreach Trainer.
"Safety training has come a long distance over the years, and thanks to today's training methods and technologies I believe it's become far more effective," Mendek said. "The toolbox safety talk still remains very important, but interactive training and testing on computers using CD-ROMs and the Internet, such as offered by Safe2Work, is proving to be a highly efficient and effective way to educate workers and help them retain and use their safety knowledge."
