About Us
History - Staff - Safety
A-1 Cement believes that a company can only do a job right if you also execute it safely. Safety forms a very important part in how A-1 Cement does its work, therefore, we have developed and implemented a very comprehensive safety program.
A-1 Cement is very proud of its safety track record. The company’s accidents and incidents record is one of the lowest and, thus, one of the best in the industry.
A-1 Cement is a member of ACSA (Alberta Construction Safety Association). ACSA has a very stringent industry code that one has to adhere to in order to receive one’s COR (Certificate of Recognition) status. A-1 Cement has had COR since 1999. This puts A-1 Cement in an elite category that tells its customers that it is a company that is committed to safety.
All A-1 Cement’s employees are trained to know and understand the need for, and importance of working safely. SWP’s (Safe Work Practices) and SJP’s (Safe Job Procedures) help A-1 Cement’s employees to work safely. Pre-trip inspections and hazard assessment forms are completed prior to all crews starting on a job site.
Employees continuously take courses at ACSA and they also receive in-house training. Comprehensive safety training ensures that all employees stay up to date with the latest Health and Safety legislation, regulations, and practices.
A-1 Cement’s Management team is committed to continuously bettering our Health and Safety Program, by providing the necessary resources to all employees to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.
Our Safety
Our History
Like many Calgarians, Phil VanderVeen Sr., emigrated from Holland to Canada in the early 1950’s. For several years he worked as a laborer and supervisor for Dominion Construction. In 1956, with only a wheelbarrow on the roof of his car, and with his wife Lee, willing to do the bookkeeping, Phil Sr. went door-to-door offering to install concrete. Phil’s commitment to hard work and quality soon established A-1 Cement Contractors as a company that its customers could depend on.
Over the years, all of Phil and Lee’s seven children worked in various capacities at A-1 Cement. Then in 1985, Phil Jr. and his wife Linda purchased the company from mom and dad.
With a commitment to strong family values, Phil Jr. carries on the tradition of employing family members. It is not unusual to see brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, sons and daughters working at A-1 Cement. Since 1985, A-1 Cement has continued to grow and develop new markets.
Since 1956 many advancements have been made. Over the years some of our tools have changed, our equipment has changed, even our location has changed. One thing that will never change is our commitment to provide our customers with top quality concrete work. A-1’s reputation has been built on quality, honesty and Christian values. We recognize God as our provider. He has been faithful to us from the beginning.
Meet the Team