When it comes to workplace hazards, Dawood SUE Project Manager Mitchell (Mitch) Argall knows what it takes to help protect our employees. A safety and subsurface utility engineering (SUE) expert with over two decades in the industry, Mitch discusses why safety matters in our latest employee spotlight.
1. Explain your professional background. How did you become a Safety Specialist?
In the early 2000s, I started my career in Human Resources, performing general HR duties before transitioning into an Illinois trucking company as Safety Coordinator, where I oversaw drivers and Department of Transportation (DOT) reports. In 2006, I worked at America’s largest underground 811 utility provider as a trainer, supervisor, and district manager in Florida’s Southeastern region, handling safety, assets, and budgets. I met Michael Gray that same year and we joined Dawood in 2022, where I worked as SUE Operations Manager. This summer, I added the role of interim safety supervisor. I now serve as Dawood’s full-time safety manager while continuing to support our SUE team as project manager.
2. Why the dual role?
Sound SUE processes are synonymous with safety. My wealth of experience in the SUE industry provides me with a unique perspective, helping to fuel my passion for promoting a healthy work environment. Staying connected to our on-site teams empowers me to drive continuous improvement in both field operations and safety best practices.
3. Can you cite an example of how your team mitigates safety hazards?
In a recent project, my team used Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to map out and verify existing gas facilities within mobile home communities. Damage to the infrastructure can easily happen during construction, so we mapped out the actual facility and determined if leaks were present for system operations to fix. As a safety moment, we took great care to protect ourselves and the community, as leaks can be dangerous and unpredictable if not handled correctly.
4. How do you stay “in the know” on the latest safety regulations?
I attend safety conferences to stay abreast of the latest standards and gain knowledge by networking with industry leaders. For example, I attended the Global Excavation Safety Conference and listened to presentations about mitigating body and heat stress through Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) policies. These conferences serve as one of many blueprints helping to elevate Dawood’s safety standards.
5. What does embracing a safety culture mean to you?
Safety starts from the top down. I help workers understand safety policies, why they matter, and what tools they can use to stay safe. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and filling out job safety analysis (JSA) forms ensure a safe working environment. We want our employees to know they are worth the time and money to keep safe. No job is worth sustaining injuries or losing your life.
6. In your view, what technologies will shape the future of workplace safety?
Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) represent promising intelligent technology. Features such as auto-stop breaking, electronic logging systems, dashcams, and telematics will reduce car accidents and save lives. Since the AEC industry relies on the safe transport of people, goods, and services, safety standards will evolve with CAVs.
7. What are your professional goals?
First, I aspire to become a recognized safety leader who sets standards and brings innovative changes to the AEC industry. Acting as a mentor to our employees will help me achieve that goal, consistent with Dawood’s culture. Second, I want to earn my drone license to remove the human element from on-site hazards, such as viewing underground piping on busy highways.