Massachusetts-based Solect Energy (No. 84 on the upcoming 2015 Top Solar Contractors list) founder and CEO Ken Driscoll discusses the company’s unlikely partnership with the Melanoma Foundation of New England (MFNE).
Solar Power World: How did you come to partner with the MFNE?
Driscoll: Our partnership with the Melanoma Foundation of New England was quite serendipitous. The foundation was looking for a location to host their Boston Marathon runners, and we were looking for a charitable organization that we could help and give back. We also happened to be based in Hopkinton, which is where the marathon starts. It was this coincidental engagement that has grown into a partnership to help each other educate about the power of the sun.
More companies are investing in the health of their employees. Why do it?
Our people are our greatest asset. Solect strongly believes in a “people, planet, profit” philosophy. The people part of that means taking care of our employees, customers and partners. We’re committed to our employees and to building a culture of excellence through creating a work environment that inspires healthy habits, innovation and teamwork.
What are some practical health tips for solar installers?
The following is a list of tips that we give employees prior to working and encourage them to practice:
- Keep your shirt on.
- Wear a hat with a brim or a flap that covers the ears and back of the neck.
- Wear sunglasses with a UV protection (both UVA and UVB light) rating of 100%.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible, during your breaks and especially at lunch time.
- Use a high factor sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on any exposed skin.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Schedule an annual skin exam with a dermatologist.
- Check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or spots. See a doctor promptly if you see anything that is changing in shape, size or color, itching or bleeding.
Tell Us What You Think!