ABC Report Highlights Safety Gains for Access Equipment Operators

Ahead of Construction Safety Week 2025, May 5–9, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has released its 2025 Health and Safety Performance Report, offering new insights into how structured safety programs can reduce incident rates on jobsites, particularly where aerial work platforms, telehandlers and other lifting equipment are in use.

The report spotlights the impact of ABC’s STEP Health and Safety Management System, which helps contractors benchmark and improve safety performance. Companies actively using STEP reported total recordable incident rates (TRIR) up to 658% lower than the industry average, with an 85% reduction in overall incidents.

“As today’s jobsites become more complex and equipment-dependent, especially in sectors using mobile elevating work platforms, it’s critical that safety is embedded into every phase of operations,” said Greg Sizemore, ABC vice president of health, safety, environment and workforce development. “The tools in ABC’s safety report draw the blueprint for industry leaders and workers to create a culture of health and safety.”

Key safety practices that produced significant improvements in access- and equipment-heavy environments include:

• In-depth new hire orientation: Lowers TRIR by 52% and DART (Days Away, Restricted or Transferred) by 56%.
• Substance abuse prevention: Policies with testing reduce TRIR by 52% and DART by 55%.
• Daily toolbox talks: Short daily safety meetings cut TRIR by 78% and DART by 79%.
• Management involvement: Executive engagement in safety protocols leads to nearly 50% fewer incidents.
• Use of leading indicators: Tracking preventative actions like training and inspections results in up to a 60% drop in incident rates.

ABC analyzed more than 1 billion work hours in 2024 across general and specialty contractors, many of which regularly operate access equipment on active jobsites.

“The 2025 Health and Safety Performance Report and STEP will help any contractor or supplier reinforce their commitment to the well-being of their workforce,” said Sizemore. “Together we can ensure every construction worker goes home safer, happier, healthier, and more fulfilled every single day.”

Now in its eighth year, ABC’s report is based on data from real-world projects and job conditions. It is sponsored by DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand.

For contractors working with aerials and lifting equipment who want to participate in STEP, visit abc.org/step.