Celebrating Excellence in Workplace Safety: Shane Balcom's Life-Saving Actions

At SPI Pharma, the safety and well-being of our employees are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that fostering a strong safety culture is essential to protecting our people and ensuring a secure workplace. One individual who exemplifies this commitment is Shane Balcom, who was recently honored with an ‘Outstanding’ award in the category of Health & Safety Ambassadors at the ABFI HSE Awards.

On November 27, 2023, Shane, a dedicated team leader at SPI Pharma’s Holland warehouse, demonstrated exceptional preparedness and quick thinking in a critical situation. When he noticed his colleague, Roberto, exhibiting signs of distress, Shane’s rapid response and first responder training became the difference between life and death. Recognizing the symptoms of a major heart attack, he acted immediately, leveraging the site’s emergency preparedness measures, including the availability of AEDs and trained staff, to ensure Roberto received the urgent medical attention he needed.

Thanks to Shane’s swift actions and the company’s commitment to safety readiness, Roberto underwent successful surgery and is now recovering. This incident underscores the vital role that preparedness, awareness, and a strong safety culture play in safeguarding employees. It serves as a powerful reminder of why we prioritize health and safety at every level of our operations.

Our Commitment to Health & Safety

At SPI Pharma, we go beyond compliance; we actively embed health, safety, and well-being into our corporate culture. We equip our employees with essential tools and training to make informed decisions that contribute to a safer work environment. Our teams follow the ABF Ingredients’ Safety Essentials toolkit, engage in online training, and participate in practical safety exercises to continuously enhance our workplace safety standards.

Recognizing Safety Excellence

Every year, SPI Pharma participates in the ABF Ingredients Health, Safety, and Environment Recognition Awards, celebrating individuals and teams who drive workplace health and safety improvements. Shane’s award is a testament to the impact that one person’s dedication can have on an entire organization. We are proud of his leadership and the example he sets for his colleagues.

A Vision for People and Planet

As a global company, we recognize our responsibility to create a positive impact—not just within our workplaces but also in the broader world. Beyond prioritizing employee safety, we are committed to sustainability and ethical business practices. We continuously seek ways to minimize our environmental footprint, ensure responsible sourcing, and provide innovative pharmaceutical solutions that enhance both human and animal health.

Our EcoVadis Silver certification reflects our commitment to fair labor, human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. From reducing energy consumption in our manufacturing processes to investing in greener technologies, we strive to contribute to a healthier planet while delivering high-quality, sustainable products.

Looking Ahead

Shane’s actions remind us that safety is a shared responsibility and that preparedness can truly save lives. We remain dedicated to fostering a culture where every employee feels empowered to take action, look out for one another, and contribute to a safer, healthier workplace.

Join us in celebrating Shane Balcom’s outstanding achievement and in reaffirming our commitment to safety, sustainability, and the well-being of our people.

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