Safety isn’t just a policy at Cannon Building–it’s the foundation of everything we do.
From building complex healthcare facilities to delivering cutting-edge life science laboratories and offices, our clients trust us with their most critical construction needs because they know we’ve built our reputation on an unwavering commitment to safety excellence.
Meet Our Safety Lead: Jonathan Hansen
Jonathan Hansen runs point on safety initiatives for Cannon Building, and his expertise and dedication have been instrumental in maintaining our exceptional record. With nearly 15 years of experience in construction safety management, Hansen brings a unique combination of technical knowledge and hands-on field experience to every project.
He began his safety career in 2010 as a safety manager and trainer at HES Consulting and then worked his way up to project safety manager (McCarthy Building Cos.), corporate safety director (RA Burch Construction Inc.), and director of construction safety (HES) before joining Cannon Building in early 2023.
Under Hansen’s leadership, Cannon Building has transformed its safety program from a compliance requirement into a competitive advantage. His proactive approach to hazard identification, comprehensive training programs, and commitment to continuous improvement have positioned him as a trusted safety subject matter expert within our organization and the broader construction industry.
“Cannon Building operates with safety at our core. From the very start of every project, safety is built into the foundation of our operations. Just as a strong foundation is essential to any building, a strong foundation in safety ensures our work meets the highest standards. When safety comes first, quality follows naturally. Our best practices and efficiency come from embedding safety from day one, not adding it on as an afterthought.”
— Jonathan Hansen
The Numbers Tell the Story: EMR Performance
Our commitment to safety is more than something we talk about; it’s measurable. Cannon Building’s Experience Modification Rate (EMR) consistently outperforms industry standards with the combined focus and efforts of our organization:
2025: 0.75 EMR
2024: 0.76 EMR
2023: 0.78 EMR
What does this mean? The industry baseline EMR is 1.0, representing average safety performance. Any score below 1.0 indicates fewer workplace incidents and superior safety performance compared to industry peers. Cannon Building’s three-year average of ~0.76 means we experience 25% fewer incidents than the typical construction company.
This exceptional performance translates into real benefits:
- Lower workers’ compensation insurance premiums get passed on as cost savings to clients
- Enhanced bidding competitiveness is crucial for projects where safety records can qualify or disqualify a general contractor from submitting a proposal
- Increased client confidence in our ability to deliver projects safely and on time
Why This Matters
When you choose Cannon Building, you’re partnering with a general contracting company that prioritizes the safety of everyone on the job site. Our low EMR helps establish:
Reduced Project Risk
Fewer accidents mean fewer delays, cost overruns, and potential liability issues. Our safety record gives clients confidence that their projects will proceed smoothly without the disruptions that safety incidents can cause.
Specialized Project Capability
Our safety excellence makes us a trusted choice for complex, high-stakes projects in healthcare, life sciences, private/higher education, and commercial/industrial sectors. These environments demand contractors who understand that safety isn’t negotiable–it’s essential for project success.
Long-term Value
A safer workplace protects everyone involved and helps ensure project budgets and timelines remain intact. Our clients appreciate knowing they’re working with a contractor who invests in prevention rather than dealing with problems after they occur.
Building a Culture of Safety Excellence
Safety at Cannon Building isn’t the responsibility of one person or department–it’s embedded in our company culture at every level. We invest heavily in proactive safety training that goes beyond minimum requirements. Our team receives regular updates on best practices, new regulations, and emerging safety technologies to stay ahead of potential hazards.
Every team member, from project managers to field workers, understands their role in maintaining our safety standards. This shared responsibility creates a culture where looking out for each other is expected, and we hold one another accountable, companywide.
At our recent Q3 All Company Safety Meeting, we recognized Hansen for his outstanding contributions to our safety program. This quarterly tradition reinforces Cannon Building’s commitment to safety excellence (and continuous improvement) as a core value we celebrate and hold to a high standard.
The Cannon Building Difference
Our exceptional safety record is a result of deliberate choices, consistent investment, and a company culture that values people above all else.
At Cannon Building, we believe that doing things safely is the only way to do them right. Our EMR performance, safety culture, and expert leadership prove that we don’t just talk about safety. We deliver on it, project after project.
Ready to experience the Cannon Building difference? Contact us today to learn how our safety-first approach can benefit your next construction project.