By Hannah Aguilar-Mota
When you work in construction, being safe is a mindset — and that doesn’t just stop when you go home for the day.
Just ask Alfonso Gomez, a foreman for DWH Demolition and this month’s eMOD Construction Safety Hero. Alfonso, a 27-year construction veteran, sometimes works on little projects at home with his three kids, ages 18, 17, and 10. And, before they do anything, Alfonso says, “I always make sure they put on safety glasses and PPE.”
A big part of Alfonso’s motivation to be safe at work, he says, also relates to his family — returning home safely every day. On the job site, Alfonso has earned the reputation of being diligent about safety — from making sure his team’s daily pre-task plans are completed to ensuring everyone has the proper gear and PPE to do the day’s work. “A lot of this may seem standard,” said Dome Construction assistant superintendent Erny Garcia. “But what stands out is how natural it comes to Alfonso and his team — there is no babysitting with his crew.”
We recently had the chance to talk with Alfonso about his long career in construction — and his views on safety.
What does being safe mean in your day-to-day work?
It means a lot. It means I have to come back home in one piece for my family — and that includes the same for my coworkers.
What are some of the biggest hazards you see in demo and abatement?
Working near cranes. We work a lot near big crane loads and moving equipment, which is very hazardous.
What’s the biggest risk in that work?
The biggest is being under a load. The other is getting struck by a load or caught directly within pinch points.
As a foreman, how do you keep your team safe?
First, one of our company requirements is work plans — pre-task plans. Every day before we go do any work, we talk about risk and what every worker is doing that day. So, that helps prevent injuries.
Is there anything that scares you?
Not really. I’ve had experience with a little bit of everything in construction. I just try to stay focused on being safe.
As a foreman, do you find it difficult to talk openly about safety issues?
A little bit. Sometimes people don’t want to follow instructions. I explain what they have to do to prevent injuries. I tell them to use PPE. But sometimes, people do whatever they want. They listen, but they don’t always follow through. I have to keep telling them how to be safe. And if they don’t listen, then I have to give them a warning.
Erny told us that he never needs to worry about your crew when it comes to safety. What does that mean to you?
That means a lot. That means at least someone is watching what I’m doing. And If he’s happy with my work, that’s good.
Do you look at safety differently than others?
I have to. As a foreman, I’m in charge of my coworkers. I have to think differently about it.
I know you’ve been using eMOD. What do you think of it?
It’s a very good tool. It makes things easier. We used to do a lot of documents on paper. It’s a lot easier in the eMOD app.
Have you ever been injured?
Thank God I’ve never been injured.
Have you witnessed injuries on any of your projects?
Yes, but fortunately nothing really serious. Some sprains and small things like that.
In your 27 years, has safety in construction improved?
Safety has definitely improved a lot. One example, with the pre-task plan, we talk every day about all the hazards. We didn’t use to spend that time talking about it.
Could safety be improved even more?
Yes. Taking more time planning. Explaining the hazards every day. I want to prevent small incidents. They happen, but we need to try to prevent those.
Have your views on safety changed since you started?
Yes. It was different when I started. I was a laborer. I wasn’t in charge of people.
Do you talk to your family about your work and the risks?
I tell them about my job risks — all the risks and different tasks we do. I explain the important part of using PPE and being safe.
Do you work on projects with them at home?
Yes. Little projects like putting up a fence. When I have them helping, I always make sure they put on safety glasses and PPE.
What does it mean to you to be honored as a ‘Safety Hero?’
I’m very proud to hear that. It means someone is watching what I’m doing closely.
Last but not least, what’s your favorite part of your job?
I’ve been in the industry a long time. I like what I’m doing, and helping other foremen. I really like my job.
Thanks Alfonso — and congratulations!
What is the eMOD Safety Hero Award?
Once a month, eMOD highlights someone working in the commercial construction industry who practices their craft with a safety-first approach. We recognize heroes who put safety ahead of productivity, who take action today to make our work safer tomorrow, who do the right thing rather than the most convenient. They promote accountability among team members, champion the latest safety practices, and encourage transparency about hazardous situations as they arise.
Nominate an eMOD Safety Hero Today
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Hannah Aguilar-Mota is an onboarding specialist for eMOD.