Launched in 2022, the “Who’s In My Backyard” initiative has gradually established itself as a key driver of our Health & Safety culture.
Its starting point was the testimony of Beck Weathers, a mountaineer who survived a dramatic expedition on Mount Everest. In an extreme situation, the thought of returning to his family guided his decisions and sustained his will to live. This simple idea — knowing who you go home to — inspired Lee Mercer, Senior HSE Manager at The Miller Group, to create an approach that brings deeper meaning to everyday safety practices.
A Simple Approach Focused on What Truly Matters
The initiative relies on an accessible format: sharing photos and personal stories during team gatherings (team meetings, internal events).
By showing colleagues the people who are waiting for us at the end of the workday, we give legitimacy to safety rules — we humanize them.
The aim is not to add yet another tool, but to anchor Safety messages in a tangible reality: behind every employee, there are people who matter. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that every procedure, every rule, every protocol serves a deeply human purpose.
Giving Meaning Back to Safety Actions
Beyond symbolism,the initiative directly links rules and procedures to their true purpose:
- Protect yourself and protect your team
- Avoid an injury that could turn lives upside down
- Prevent accidents on my worksite and in its surroundings
- Avoid making the wrong mistake at the wrong time
Each safety action thus becomes more concrete: it is not only about regulatory compliance, but about individual and collective responsibility.
A Measurable Impact on Health & Safety Culture
Since its launch, “Who’s In My Backyard” has generated several positive outcomes:
- Employees from various professions and sites have embraced the initiative, making these presentations a highlight of team meetings
- Voluntary sharing of personal elements fosters authenticity and strengthens team cohesion;
- Safety discussions, often seen as technical, gain clarity and impact. Issues become more accessible because they are directly connected to everyone’s daily life;
Growing International Reach
Given its impact, the initiative has been adopted across Colas Canada and shared internationally. This expansion confirms the relevance of the approach and its adaptability to different environments.
An Initiative Aligned with our Values
“Who’s In My Backyard” is fully aligned with our priorities:
- Safety and well‑being at work
- Respect
- Team spirit and collective responsibility
By placing people at the heart of prevention, the initiative reinforces a shared conviction: sustainable performance depends on a safe working environment.
A Lasting Success
Four years after its launch, “Who’s In My Backyard” demonstrates that a simple, cost‑free, meaningful initiative can sustainably strengthen a Safety culture.
By reminding us that every decision, every check and every procedure helps protect lives — both professional and personal — it transforms safety into a concrete commitment, shared by all.
