Field Safety: Lighter Materials Reduce Utility Maintenance Injuries
Safety in the Field: How Lighter Materials Can Reduce Injury Rates for Underground Utility Maintenance
At Bingham & Taylor, we have witnessed the evolution of the utilities industry firsthand. For 175 years, we have been integral to the network that ensures safe and secure access to underground utilities. We’ve always led the way, from being the original manufacturer and patent holder of the iconic buffalo-style valve box to pioneering plastic valve boxes in the 1960s. As we've advanced over the decades, one undeniable truth has remained consistent: lighter materials can significantly reduce injury rates in the field.
The Challenge of Heavy Materials
One of the most critical challenges field technicians face is the risk of injury when accessing utilities. Heavy materials not only require more strength to handle but also pose a significant risk of strains, sprains, and other physical injuries. By adopting lighter materials, we can ensure that our dedicated field workers remain safer, face fewer injury risks, and experience improved overall efficiency.
Why Materials Matter
For Bingham & Taylor, the transition to lighter materials was not just about innovation—it was about safety and sustainability. Our introduction of plastic valve boxes in the 1960s and our focus on injection and blow-molded plastics in our Virginia facilities highlight our commitment. When workers handle these lightweight products, the strain on their bodies is significantly reduced. This not only leads to fewer on-site injuries but also helps speed up operations and ensure timely access and maintenance of utilities.
Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability means that while we focus on lighter materials, we do not compromise on quality or environmental responsibility. For instance, 100% of the iron used in our castings comes from recycled material. Items like used car rotors, when melted down, make excellent sources of iron. By utilizing these recycled materials, we not only reduce waste but also lessen the demand for extracting new resources from the environment.
Our continuous efforts to improve manufacturing processes and reduce our carbon footprint emphasize our dedication to safety and eco-consciousness. We have implemented energy-efficient practices throughout our operations and are investing in research to develop even more sustainable materials.
At Bingham & Taylor, we believe that being responsible stewards of the environment goes hand-in-hand with ensuring the safety and well-being of our workers. By prioritizing lighter materials and sustainable practices, we are advancing our industry and contributing to a better and brighter future for all.
Bingham & Taylor: A Legacy of Dedication
Our legacy is not just in the products we manufacture but also in the values we uphold. Our dedication to our craftspeople, our focus on quality, and our innovation-centric approach—manifested through our in-house engineering, CAD design, and pattern shop—all underline our commitment to being industry leaders.
All of our establishments, from our headquarters in Culpeper, Virginia, to our injection molding and roll and blow molding operations in Fredericksburg, Virginia, have one singular focus: to meet the specific needs of our customers. We collaborate, innovate, and execute, ensuring that our products and services align with the highest standards of safety and excellence.
Safety Is Not Just a Word, It's Our Commitment
For Bingham & Taylor, the safety of our field technicians, clients, and the communities we serve has always been paramount. Our move towards lighter materials isn't just an innovative step but a testament to our dedication to the well-being of everyone involved in the utilities sector.
We are committed to upholding our reputation as the industry’s leader in product design and innovation. We invite all stakeholders to join us in our mission—creating solutions that are not just efficient but safe and sustainable. At Bingham & Taylor, we are more than just a company; we have a legacy of commitment, innovation, and unwavering dedication.
To learn more about our commitment to workplace safety, please visit our Sustainability page.
