On June 12, Roy McAllister, the director of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Office, conducted a safety walk at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Ky., where members of UFCW Local 38D produce bourbon.
McAllister was accompanied on the safety walk by UFCW Local 38D President Ernie Ryles, Secretary-Treasurer Sammy Denney, and Distillery Division Coordinator Cliff Thomas. During the safety walk at the distillery, McAllister pointed out health and safety concerns to the local’s leadership so they could raise the issues with the company and provide a safer work environment for UFCW Local 38D members.
“Along with some pandemic language, we were able to negotiate the language to permit the safety walk-through during contract negotiations last year,” said Ryles. “We take keeping our members safe a priority, so having the ability to have Roy come in and point things out is a great tool. We appreciate International’s support on this.”
“The visit to the Buffalo Trace Distillery was a great experience and opportunity to see the many complexities that are involved with the production of bourbon,” said McAllister. “It is a unique mixture of traditional craftsmanship and today’s technology that is a testament to the dedication of the members who work diligently to make a quality product.”
If your local is interested in coordinating a safety walk with the OSH Office team, contact Roy McAllister, the director of the OSH Office, at rmcallister@ufcw.org.