By: Peter Erndwein, Director of Risk Control
In January of each year, the Delaware Valley Trusts’ Executive Director and Risk Control Department staff select a single winner from the risk management innovation award applications/nominations collected throughout the year. This annual program which had its first winner in 2011 seeks to highlight examples of “out-of-the-box” thinking by DVPLT and DVWCT members.
We are very pleased to announce that Lower Makefield Township was selected to receive the 2020 award for their submission entitled, “The Public Works and Recreation Departments Employee Training Incentive Program”. The origins of this innovation can be traced to when management identified a critical need to expand the range of employee skills and capabilities to increase productivity within the departments while maintaining the current headcount.
As a result, management in concert with the labor union collaborated to implement a process whereby employees could earn increased compensation by meeting targeted competencies, many of which included risk management elements. Some of these competencies require the attainment of specific certifications, while others require employees to pass a department head review and approval. Each competency attained awards an additional level of compensation.
In addition to the risk management benefits, this innovation was selected in part because it is an excellent example of what is possible when management and labor work together to improve the work environment. Feedback indicates the program has been well-received by employees who appreciate the clarity in how they might progress in their job classifications. Management benefits by having employees with a greater skill-set. This initiative has been especially helpful to address absences during critical operational periods.
As a result of winning the 2020 DVT Risk Management Innovation Award, Lower Makefield Township will receive a recognition plaque, catered luncheon for the project team, and $1,000 prize to be used to help fund the program.
The Township has graciously agreed to share its Employee Training Incentive Program with DVPLT and DVWCT members. Those interested in reviewing the employee classifications and required areas of competency should contact the Risk Control Department at (215) 706-0101 or email their Lead Risk Control Consultant.
