Safety isn’t just another priority that shifts with business needs. It's the core of how we operate, how we train, and how we support our Americold associates every day.
From the moment an associate joins our team, we are committed to creating an environment where they feel prepared, supported, and confident in the work they do.
"Safety is fundamental to our business success," says Heather Frederick, Americold’s Director of Safety and Health in North America.
By protecting our associates and maintaining a safe work environment, we improve operational efficiency, strengthen our operations, and ensure we consistently deliver for our customers while sending every associate home safely each day.
And that commitment holds true across every part of our business.
A Culture Built on Looking Out for One Another
To us, safety is about people:
- Associates who speak up when they see a potential hazard.
- Leaders who take time to reinforce safe work practices.
- Teams who look out for one another because they know everyone plays a role in creating a safer workplace.
"A strong safety culture shows up in everyday actions," says Rick Stevens, VP of Risk Control & Food Safety at Americold.
It’s where associates take ownership of their own safety and look out for one another, actively ensuring a safe work environment for everyone.
This culture of accountability and care helps create an environment where associates are empowered to share ideas, raise concerns, and contribute to continuous improvement.
Because the safest workplaces are built together.
Training That Starts on Day One
Starting a new role should never mean figuring things out on your own.
Every new associate at Americold receives comprehensive safety training that begins with new hire safety orientation and continues through hands-on instruction, monthly learning opportunities, and ongoing reinforcement from leaders and peers.
"Our approach blends formal training with practical experience," Heather explains. "Associates receive safety fundamentals along with task-specific training before performing work independently."
Whether operating equipment, working in temperature-controlled environments, or learning site-specific procedures, associates are given the tools and support they need to work safely and confidently.
The goal is to make sure every associate feels prepared before taking on new responsibilities.
How Do Associates Stay Safe in a Cold Storage Environment?
Working in cold storage is a unique experience, and we understand candidates may have questions about what that means.
Americold provides associates with the protective equipment, cold-weather apparel, training, and resources needed to work comfortably and safely. From specialized outerwear and gloves to ongoing education about hydration, cold-weather awareness, and workplace best practices, safety is integrated into every aspect of the environment.
Just as importantly, our teams are trained to recognize potential risks and proactively address them before they become problems.
Celebrating Safety Month Across Americold
While safety is a year-round commitment, June gives us an opportunity to celebrate and reinforce it across our global network through Safety Month.
Each week focuses on a different aspect of safety:
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Week 1: Human Safety
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Week 2: Refrigeration Safety
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Week 3: Vehicle Safety
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Week 4: Food Safety
Throughout the month, sites host activities that make safety engaging, practical, and personal. Teams participate in safety walks, hazard recognition challenges, wellness conversations, inspections, and interactive learning opportunities.
One particularly meaningful activity is the "Why I Work Safe" wall, where associates share photos of family members, pets, hobbies, and personal motivations.
It is about the people waiting for us at home and our teammates working beside us every day.
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