Store Manager Frank Fratina never expected to make this great of an impact — he thought he was just doing the right thing. Little did he know, his dedication and passion would inspire associates throughout his store to work safer.

Store Manager Frank Fratina at #1079, Weston Florida.

Frank transferred to #1079, Weston, Florida, in late 2012 (now at #223, Miami) and immediately emphasized the importance of working safely. He recognized associates who followed procedures and coached those who needed an extra push. But he quickly realized there was more he could do to help.

So, each time an associate was injured, he created a sense of awareness around the store with one-on-one coaching. He talked to them about how their injury happened and how to prevent getting hurt in the future.

Managers exhibit Frank’s dedication to safety by coaching associates on how to avoid working unsafely — before an injury happens.

“For our team to improve, everyone had to be all in. We knew Publix provided us a safe working environment, but we needed to realize it was our responsibility to work safe,” said Frank. “Being aware of your surroundings is key, but being aware of your own abilities and limitations also is very important. Each associate demonstrated true ownership by making a personal decision to work safer.”

When he received the next injury report in 2013, Frank was more than pleased to see the number of associate injuries had decreased by more than half, and customer injuries decreased by almost 40 percent. To show his gratitude for the team’s achievement, he threw a party for his associates. Frank has since transferred to #223, Miami, but the change he set in motion didn’t stop with his departure. Store Manager Bruce Yates replaced Frank earlier this year and has continued to see decreases in associate and customer injuries throughout the store.