Learn More About the BE4ALL Rapid Response Protocol

In a joint commitment to foster belonging and excellence in the Sheet Metal Industry, the BE4All Committee composed of SMART, SMACNA and ITI members has developed a Rapid Response Protocol. The protocol is intended for use by all parties of the sheet metal industry; local unions, regional councils, contractors, SMACNA chapters and JATCs to help navigate situations of bias and harm that may arise. 

The committee has worked to develop a template of policies and procedures that will foster an inclusive environment within the industry. It is our belief that by fostering a work environment free of bias our industry will be better able to retain our current talent, as well as recruit new talent to the workforce. These policies and procedures are intended to be a template and guide. Local areas are urged to work with their legal counsel to ensure that local laws are being followed.

The Protocol contains best practices and recommendations for the entire industry, and a version of this Protocol has also been developed for use by local unions, regional councils and JATCs. We acknowledge and underscore that creating respectful workplaces is a responsibility shared by everyone in our industry. However, it is contractors who face the greatest liability exposure when this does not occur.

The Protocol is divided into two sections:

1. The first section, “Prevention,” describes measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of having incidents of bias involving your employees, and, if an incident does occur, provide some liability protection, providing you not only adopt but enforce the recommended policies.
2. The second section, “Rapid Response Protocol Guidelines,” recommends steps and actions for you to consider and take if an incident of bias occurs that involves one of your employees.

The Protocol also includes template policies and procedures for you to consider adopting to foster an inclusive environment within the industry. Contractors and chapters are urged to work with their legal counsel to ensure compliance with state, provincial, or local laws.

Click here to review the protocol.