NC Section Meeting – Managing Construction Safety at the San Diego International Airport

Presented by Gary Couture, MS-OSH, COSS

Construction is an ongoing and never-ending reality at a major commercial airport. At any given time, a wide variety of construction projects may be in various stages of progress using multiple contractors and subcontractors working both night and day shifts. Overseeing the safety and health of those construction workers, while ensuring there is no disruptions to airport operations or hazardous exposures to the traveling public can be a daunting task. As the Construction Safety Program Manager at the San Diego International Airport, Gary Couture has successfully managed that process for over 10 years, maintaining a total recordable injury rate (TRIR) of 0.55, compared to an industry average of 3.7. Come learn about the processes and programs he utilizes to achieve this amazing record.

Gary Couture has a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, a Master’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health, and is a Certified Occupational Safety Specialist. Gary served 24 years in the US Navy as a certified nuclear propulsion components welder and as a specialist in submarine repair quality assurance, shipboard firefighting, damage control, and nuclear, biological and chemical warfare defense, retiring in 1997 as a Master Chief Petty Officer. After his naval service, Gary worked in the home-building industry where he served as Division Safety Manager of a national home building company for six years. In 2006 he transitioned to his current position as the Construction Safety Program Manager for the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. He currently serves as a Chapter Delegate and is the Newsletter Editor for the San Diego chapter of ASSE. Gary is the proud father of four daughters and a foster-daughter, and grandfather of 25 grandchildren!