Safety and Compliance Officer

Safety is a core priority for IFG. Learn one aspect of our safety program through our DOT Safety and Compliance Coordinator, Kristen!

What does a Department of Transportation (DOT) Safety and Compliance Coordinator do?

As a DOT Safety & Compliance Coordinator for the company it is my duty to keep the Athol site of IFG & Baker Truck Service compliant with any regulations that govern our industry, help document and investigate incidents and near misses that occur, provide training on safety related topics, and host our safety committee monthly meeting.

Why is a role like yours so important?

The role of safety coordinator is important because it helps to create a culture of safety at our company where safety is known to be a personal responsibility. In my role, I also:
– Keep IFG compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations.
– Help give injured team members the help they need to get back to work.
– Provide training regarding safe work practices.
– Attempt to identify, investigate, and remediate hazards in the work place that could cause injury or harm.

How did you get into this profession?

When I lived in Ohio, I worked for McMaster-Carr Supply Company as an order picker. While working there, I was chosen by my supervisor to be on a safety coaching team to help improve ergonomic related injuries. I found that I really enjoyed helping my fellow coworkers work in a safer manner so that they could stay healthy and do the things they enjoyed doing while not at work. This motivated me to go back to school for a degree in Occupation Safety & Health Management. I worked in management at a couple of companies after moving from Ohio to Boise where safety was a portion of the duties I performed. When my husband got a position working for the City of Sandpoint, I decided that I wanted to move fully into working in a safety related role. After working at IFG for a year I was given the opportunity to take on the role of DOT compliance and safety for our fleet as well. I truly enjoy my job and the task of promoting a safety culture at IFG.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

My favorite aspect of being a safety coordinator is providing my teammates with the tools they need to keep themselves safe at work so they can earn the money the need to enjoy life outside of work. No one wants their actions at work to cause financial hardship on the family, so I make it my goal to help my team get the proper training and tools to stay healthy so this does not become the reality for anyone.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I thoroughly enjoy all things outdoors. I am an avid hiker, camper, motorcyclist, hunter, ski/snowboarder, snowshoer, dirt biker, and fisher to name a few. My husband of nearly 10 years is my adventure soulmate along with our side kicks our two pups, Tsuga (Blueheeler mix, age 7) and Gordie (black German Shepard, age 4). I am also fond of knitting and crocheting stuffed animals. I am originally from Kentucky and I love going back to visit family whenever I can.

Click HERE for tips on how to pursue a career as a DOT Safety and Compliance Coordinator.