3 Years with O&G
For Mark Cordoano, a typical day starts early—and with purpose. As a Safety Manager for O&G’s Building and Industrial Group, Mark plans his schedule around the needs of active job sites, arriving between 6 and 7 a.m. to align with the first crews on site.
6:00–7:00 AM – Setting the Tone
Mark begins each day with a conversation. He checks in with the superintendent or project manager to get a real-time update on the jobsite—what’s happening that day, what safety concerns might be on the radar, and whether any unresolved items need attention. “That first conversation sets the stage,” Mark says. “It gives us the chance to proactively support the team before the day gets going.”
Morning – In the Field and On the Move
With his boots on the ground, Mark walks the site, observes activities, and engages directly with project teams and subcontractors. Whether it’s reviewing PPE use, checking equipment, or providing guidance on safe work practices, being involved and accessible are his top priorities. “A big part of the role is collaboration—working side-by-side with crews to spot issues early and close gaps before they become problems.”
Mid-Morning – Toolbox Talks & Safety Training
Safety education is central to Mark’s work. He leads toolbox talks and formal training sessions on topics like confined space entry and fall protection, aiming to bridge the gap between compliance and understanding. “Training is where we connect the ‘what’ with the ‘why,’” he explains. “It builds trust, strengthens the team, and ultimately keeps everyone safer.”
Throughout the Day – Tech Tools & Team Support
Behind the scenes, Mark uses Hammertech, a digital platform for documenting inspections, tracking incidents, reviewing safety plans, and managing daily Pre-Task Plans (PTPs) submitted by crews and subcontractors. “It gives us a central place to keep safety information organized and accessible,” he says. “And it allows supervisors to stay on top of safety without it slowing down the pace of work.”
Mark works most closely with superintendents and foremen, the frontline leaders who shape the safety culture of each job. “They’re the ones who drive it day-to-day. My role is to support them—so they’re empowered to keep their teams safe.”
What People Don’t See – The Homework Behind the Hard Hat
One part of the job that’s not always visible? The hours spent on research, preparation, and continuing education. “No safety manager knows everything,” Mark says, “but a good one will always keep learning. Whether it’s studying new regulations, preparing a presentation, or training on emerging risks, we have to stay sharp so we can be a resource—not just an enforcer.”
End of Day – Planning, Prepping, and Reflecting
Mark closes out his day by preparing for the next—plotting out his travel route, organizing training materials, or reviewing topics for upcoming meetings. While a day with no incidents is always a win, Mark measures success in relationships. “It means a lot when a foreman or supervisor feels comfortable reaching out about a task that needs safety input. That kind of trust means we’re doing more than just checking boxes—we’re part of the team.”
