Waste Management (WM), a $90 billion company, is prioritizing safety investments, a move that CEO Jim Fish believes transcends pure financial considerations. Fish emphasized the importance of understanding the operational side of the business, drawing from advice he received from his late father-in-law.

The company's commitment to safety is reflected in its goal to reduce the total recordable injury rate (TRIR) by 3% annually, targeting a TRIR of 2.0 by 2030. This benchmark translates to a maximum of two recordable injuries per 100 employees per year, or per 200,000 hours worked. In the past year, Waste Management reported a 5.8% reduction in overall injuries and a 2.4% decrease in lost-time injuries, according to its sustainability report.

While the immediate financial return on safety investments may not be readily apparent, Fish believes these investments are crucial for long-term success. The waste management industry, valued at hundreds of billions of dollars globally, faces inherent risks due to the nature of its operations. A strong safety record can translate to lower insurance premiums, reduced worker compensation claims, and improved employee morale, all of which contribute to the bottom line over time.

Waste Management is North America's leading provider of integrated waste management services. The company's focus on sustainability and safety aligns with growing investor and societal expectations for responsible corporate behavior.

Looking ahead, Waste Management's ability to achieve its TRIR target will be a key indicator of its success in integrating safety into its core operations. The company's performance in this area will likely influence its reputation, investor confidence, and its ability to attract and retain talent in a competitive labor market.