The Burns Safety Standard
For over a century, John Burns Construction has operated with the understanding that our people are our greatest asset. Working in underground utilities and high-voltage electrical infrastructure requires unparalleled attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk mitigation.
We believe that all incidents are preventable. Our safety program is built on the foundation of rigorous training, state-of-the-art equipment, and a company-wide commitment to looking out for one another.
We believe that all incidents are preventable. Our safety program is built on the foundation of rigorous training, state-of-the-art equipment, and a company-wide commitment to looking out for one another.
0.0
Fatalities Goal
100%
Compliance Rate
Vigilance
We maintain constant awareness of our surroundings and potential hazards in every work environment.
Accountability
Safety is everyone's responsibility. We empower every employee with 'Stop Work Authority' if they perceive a risk.
Compliance
We strictly adhere to OSHA, DOT, and industry-specific regulations, often exceeding minimum requirements.
Continuous Improvement
We regularly review our safety protocols and implement the latest training and technology.
Proactive Risk Management
Daily JHA (Job Hazard Analysis)
Before any work begins, our crews perform a comprehensive analysis of the site conditions and potential risks specific to that day's tasks.
Ongoing Certification
Our field personnel undergo rigorous training, including OSHA 10/30, first aid/CPR, and specialized utility safety certifications.
Subsurface Utility Safety
Specialized training for underground utility location and excavation, including trench safety and shoring procedures.
EMR < 1.0
Experience Modifier Rate
OSHA 30
Supervisor Training
0
Lost Time Incidents
Gold Standard
Safety Excellence
Why Clients Trust Us
Safety Infrastructure Built for Scale
Our clients depend on us to deliver safely and on schedule. Here's the operational framework that makes it possible.
150+
Field Observations / Month
Over 150 documented field observations completed each month between our safety team and field leadership — identifying hazards before they become incidents.
1:10
Safety Pro to Crew Ratio
One dedicated field safety professional for every 10 crews — ensuring hands-on oversight across every active project.
50+
Years of Team Experience
Our safety team holds BCSP and NASP credentials with over 50 years of combined experience and real knowledge of work in the field.
BCSP
Board Certified Safety Professionals
The highest credential in the safety profession
NASP
National Assoc. of Safety Professionals
Nationally recognized safety certification
In-House
Real Field Knowledge
Our professionals know the work, not just the standard
A Place Where You Matter
Safety Infrastructure Built for Scale
Our clients depend on us to deliver safely and on schedule. Here's the operational framework that makes it possible.
Stop Work Authority
Every JB employee has the right — and the responsibility — to stop work if something doesn't feel right. We don't just allow it; we actively train and coach our teams to use it with confidence.
900+
Training Certificates in 2025
Over 900 training certificates were issued to JB employees in 2025 alone. A well-trained team is a safe team — and we put resources behind that belief.
Leadership Support
Company leadership is actively involved in all safety operations. From the field to the boardroom, every level of JB management stands behind our safety professionals and field teams.
"JB cares about employees and dedicates the time to not only ensure Stop Work Authority is used — but to empower the field through training, coaching, and hands-on leadership."
Annual Event
Safety Day Stand Down
Once a year, all jobsite activity stops. Every crew, every project, every region — we come together to reinforce our commitment to safety from the ground up.
Company-Wide Pause
All field operations pause for a dedicated day of safety reflection, discussion, and reinforcement. No exceptions — safety comes before the schedule.
Hands-On Training
Field teams participate in live demonstrations, equipment checks, near-miss reviews, and scenario-based exercises relevant to their specific work environments.
Leadership Engagement
Company leadership participates directly alongside field crews — reinforcing that safety culture is driven from every level, not just posted on a wall.
A Place Where You Matter
Safety Infrastructure Built for Scale
Our clients depend on us to deliver safely and on schedule. Here's the operational framework that makes it possible.
OSHA 10 & 30 Certification
All field personnel complete OSHA 10 at minimum. Supervisors and safety leads carry OSHA 30. Renewals are tracked and scheduled proactively.
First Aid & CPR
Crew leads are certified in first aid and CPR, ensuring immediate response capability is always present on every active site.
Excavation & Trench Safety
Specialized recurrent training on trench safety, shoring systems, and underground hazard recognition — the core risks of our daily work.
Confined Space Entry
Permit-required confined space training ensures crews understand atmospheric hazards, rescue procedures, and proper entry protocols.
"We don't work safely to avoid accidents; we work safely to preserve lives."
Every morning, we hold safety briefings. Every afternoon, we review our day. Between those moments, we are vigilant, supportive, and disciplined. This is the John Burns commitment.