With the 2021 ROAD-EO season in full-swing, we recently caught up with Area Safety Manager & ROAD-EO Certifying Judge Tim P. for insights into what it takes to certify a BU ROAD-EO course and his commitment to keeping the safety of our employees a top priority each and every day …
How many ROAD-EO events have you participated in as a certifying judge?
TIM: I’ve been the Certifying Judge at approximately 15 BU ROAD-EOs, as well as participating as an Event Judge at the two prior ROAD-EO National Championships (2017 & 2019).
What is the role of a Certifying Judge? What tasks do you perform at the ROAD-EO?
TIM: The Certifying Judge is responsible for course measurements, truck compliance, individual event scoring and winning scoresheet confirmation. Basically, as a Certifying Judge, we set the tone and ensure the event is on an equal playing field with other ROAD-EOs across the Company.
What steps do you take to ensure a safe event for all?
TIM: First and foremost, safety is our Company’s top priority and it remains the same during a BU ROAD-EO event. PPE must be worn by participants and judges; boundaries and entry points for the skills course are clearly marked; and pedestrian traffic and spectators are kept at a viewing distance. Finally, we remind participants that “smooth” not “speed” wins a ROAD-EO, as your score is paramount with total time to complete the course as a tie breaker only.
How would you describe the ROAD-EO for anyone who is new to Republic Services?
TIM: ROAD-EOs are an opportunity to match your driver, operator or technician skills against the “Best of the Best” within your business unit, with the potential of going to the ROAD-EO National Championship in December 2021. It’s also a chance to show off your mad skills to friends & family members. Your kids can see the trucks or yellow iron up close & personal. At an Employee Engagement ROAD-EO event, there is plenty of food, kid-friendly entertainment and employee recognition to make you proud to “wear the Star.”
Why should all eligible drivers, operators and techs compete in their local ROAD-EO?
TIM: I’m not sure why you wouldn’t want to participate in a BU ROAD-EO. First, ROAD-EO winners get cash prizes: BU ($1,000 to $500), Area ($2,000 to $500) and National ($5,000 to $1,000 plus paid time off). Next, ROAD-EO winners get recognition from peers and perks, like a trip with a family member to the ROAD-EO National Championship in Phoenix, AZ, December 5 – 8, 2021. Finally, ROAD-EOs allow employees to shine their star!
A big thank you to Tim for spending some time with us and giving us a behind-the-scenes look at ROAD-EO set up and certification.
