Doug Clarkson can see things.
Things other people simply don’t notice. Because in addition to acting as Project Manager, Doug is also Maul’s Safety Manager. And we’re proud he guards the Guardians of your Ground.
“I look at things from a different perspective. A new set of eyes. I make a logical new game plan that I draw from years of practical experience.”
Before coming to Maul, Doug was in the paving industry for 5 years, and prior to that, had a career in security and law enforcement. Looking out for his team and the public’s safety is second nature.
“You have to be observant of your surroundings. We use a lot of large equipment without rearview or side mirrors. We have spotters most of the time, but it comes down to each of us to know: be observant of your coworkers’ surroundings and watch your buddy’s 6.”
For Doug, it’s all about being able to see trouble coming down the road, and doing what it takes to cut it off at the pass.
“I draw from my experience to have the foresight to know what precautions we should take. Maybe this parking lot only has 1 or 2 entrances, or high truck traffic with blind spots. If we’re doing a parking lot onto a busy road, we monitor the road and keep observant.”
“It’s also about keeping civilians and workers safe, too. We don’t have the luxury of a fenced in construction site, and there are a lot of other factors we may or may not be able to control around us.”
Doug makes sure his crews know that teamwork, and a few extra minutes to prepare, go a long way in keeping everyone safe.
“Safety is mostly common sense. Wear a safety vest. Wear proper protective equipment. But it’s more than meets the gear. Monthly safety meetings, where we go over the good and the bad in our company that we’ve noticed from crews and even within the office. I conduct safety audits for all our crews, sealcoating and paving, and try to always recognize and reinforce the positive safety progress that I’m seeing.”
When Doug isn’t looking out for everyone around him, he’s most likely watching a Cubs game or his two daughters dance and play sports.
“I chose Maul for a reason. They’re family-oriented. I have a wife and two young daughters, and now we have time to see our daughters grow up, do sports and dance. Chris and Eric are very accommodating and encouraging of that. Because at the end of the day, we’re all trying to get a job done safely so everyone goes home to their family and friends. That’s the biggest thing.”
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