Gerdau Ameristeel Facility Wins the Inaugural Humantech Find It Fix It Challenge



Humantech announced the winners of its first Find It - Fix It Challenge, which celebrates companies that embrace a 30-Inch View of their people and performance. Taking a 30-Inch View involves examining the intersection between employees and their work environment. Organizations were encouraged to submit photos and videos for judging by Humantech's board certified professional ergonomists and staff.

First place was awarded to Gerdau Ameristeel, a Charlotte, North Carolina facility, for its Bricklayer-Taphole Sleeve Lifting operation. Before the fix, Gerdau's operator manually lifted and installed a 75-pound taphole sleeve. The improvement, a spreader clamp, allows the operator to use a crane to lift and install the sleeve, eliminating high risk postures.

"We are proud to be recognized for implementing a high-impact, low-cost ergonomic solution," says Jake Ward, safety manager at Gerdau's Charlotte facility. "The fix showcases our team's ingenuity and advanced fabricating skills, and it can be replicated across all Gerdau's sites."

Honorable mentions were given to Genie Industries, of Redmond, WA, Building #6 for its GR Counter Weight Install and the DENSO Battle Creek, MI, facility for its Braze Line Small Parts Assembly.

"The important message here is that high-impact solutions can be simple and can often be implemented in real time," said Mike Wynn, Humantech vice president. "Humantech is proud to honor Gerdau Ameristeel Charlotte, North Carolina Facility, and we congratulate all of our participants this year."

The 2008 Find It - Fix It Challenge is slated to kick off in late spring. For additional information about the winners of the 2007 Find It - Fix It Challenge or the 2008 kickoff, visit http://www.humantech.com/aboutus/findfix/.

About Humantech

Since 1979, Humantech has partnered with organizations around the globe to accelerate workplace improvements, enabling people to perform at their best. By focusing on a 30-Inch View, Humantech consultants facilitate operational excellence, increased profitability, engaged employees, and reduced workplace injuries. For more information about our portfolio of products and services or the 30-Inch View, visit www.humantech.com.





Gerdau Ameristeel Facility Wins the Inaugural Humantech Find It Fix It Challenge