The current pandemic has been forcing us to learn that despite the obvious challenges and setbacks, business can continue in a positive direction by re-thinking how we operate. From downsizing of office space and allowing remote working, to outsourcing of various responsibilities, businesses are adapting to this “new normal”.
Historically, from a consulting standpoint, a consultant was brought in to help a client with a specific problem. Once the problem was solved, the consultant was no longer “needed”.
Due to a number of factors, including financial hardships and downsizing, out of necessity in the current landscape, companies are helping redefine a consultant’s role.
This has proven true for Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) programs. Many firms are reducing their EH&S staff and are instead seeking outside help for many of the services previously provided by those in-house professionals.
This trend is increasing the need for long-term relationships between businesses and EH&S consultants, but finding the right consultant can prove daunting. Do you opt for the large, high-profile firm just because of their name? Or do you opt for the sole proprietor and hope that the work product is completed in a timely manner?
The first and most important step is having a working knowledge of the compliance requirements for your business and what the ramifications are for not meeting them. Once you have an understanding of what is required and when it is due, you can have a productive conversation with the potential consultant.
My advice is do not settle on the first consultant you meet with. Have several come in and review your program (this should be done at no cost to you), and then develop a program that will not only keep your business in compliance but also gives you peace of mind. During this meeting you must get a sense of how much of your staff’s time is going to be required to assist the consultant with gathering the information needed to complete the various tasks.
Once the ultimate decision is made there is often a moment of hesitation or doubt before signing the agreement. You may worry, “Everything the consultant is saying sounds great but what if I end up dissatisfied and must pay anyway?” The value of your EH&S consultant is often demonstrated right at the beginning of the process. Having a consultant that lays out the path forward, along with a schedule and detailed list of deliverables should help to ease that initial apprehension.
We Can Help
Whitman works with clients to develop a program that not only meets their needs professionally, but also provides an economic benefit to the bottom line.
By offering various solutions to manage the EH&S program for your business, Whitman can tailor the consulting to match your company’s exact needs. Our services can range from periodic site audits, training classes, and health & safety policy preparation, to environmental permitting and reporting.
Based on the options chosen for your business, an economic monthly fee can be agreed upon, so your business is aware of its monthly obligation; there are no hidden costs.
Whitman is dedicated to providing the support needed to ensure your site is environmentally sound, all staff are working in a safe environment, and all related costs are being reviewed and managed to your company’s benefit.
Contact Us
Please contact Whitman’s Senior Vice President John Beaupre with any questions or to schedule a consultation at your facility.
John Beaupre
Senior Vice President
jbeaupre@whitmanco.com
(732) 390-5858
Posted on September 9, 2020
