Quality, Safety, Environmental

SAFETY

The Great Lakes Group places the highest priority on individual safety, prevention of pollution, and customer satisfaction in all phases of our operations.  Because of our desire to provide you with the best service possible while ensuring the safety of employees and the protection of the environment, The Great Lakes Group has implemented thorough environmental, safety, and quality assurance systems.  The Great Lakes Group operates its fleet and its facilities under policies and procedures that meet or exceed governmental regulations.

ENVIRONMENTAL

The Great Lakes Group and its affiliated companies are committed to policies and procedures that support a sustainable environment.

Company headquarters, shipyard facilities, and equipment incorporate many sustainable design elements and construction practices that significantly reduce the negative impact of industry on the environment through the incorporation of “GREEN” technology in their designs. The host of “GREEN” initiatives include a stringent Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan; bulkheading; a new sanitary system; rapidly deployable waterfront containment systems; a bio-retention basin and filtration system for removing sediments in water run-off which replenishes the underground aquifer; use of recycled and recyclable materials; construction waste management; indoor air quality management; daylighting and tinted glass; photo light sensors to conserve energy; silver roofing for reflectivity; and substantial landscaping.

Mindful of post-9/11 homeland security requirements and being co-located with the City of Cleveland’s Garrett A. Morgan Water Plant, the facilities incorporate dock and property outdoor lighting, security fencing, motion detectors, card swipes, remote cameras, and 24-hour monitoring that includes fire detection and security alarm systems.

Further, the Company makes it a focus to minimize the environmental impact of repair or new construction projects through the use of advanced diesel engines and associated equipment which are specifically designed to reduce air emissions and other environmental toxins.  Recyclable materials are also used in the construction and procurement processes wherever possible.

Most recently, The Towing Company joined Green Marine, a voluntary environmental program for North America’s maritime industry. The Shipyard has also enrolled, making it the first U.S. shipyard to join the program.