CAMP CARROLL, Korea –
Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Korea recently performed an “An-Jeon-Ji-Won-Je” traditional Korean safety ceremony at the site of the new warehouse slated for completion in February 2021.
“The purpose of the ceremony is to give thanks for the workforces’ safe execution of the construction project while praying for zero incidents throughout the completion of the project,” said DLA Distribution Korea Commander Army Lt. Col. Corinne F. McClellan.
The ceremony is conducted at the midpoint or completion of construction of a new facility. Normally, the entire construction workforce participates in the ceremony which reinforces safety awareness, ownership and commitment to safe practices (“An-Jeon” means safety in Korean.) The event is intended to protect from natural disasters as the part of Korean traditional shamanism; at the same time, it is a time to celebrate a successful project as planned.
The traditional ritual table “Gosa-sang,” included the following necessary offerings:
• Smiling pig;
• Rice cakes (must include a red bean rice cake);
• Fruits (must include red dates, persimmons, pears and apples);
• Foods (mainly include Korean pancakes) and
• Korean rice wine.
The traditional ceremony began with opening remarks, followed by prayer, bowing of the knee three times and moving to the table or “Gosa-sang.” Participants then sprinkled a cup of rice wine three times and called for zero incidents three times.
Overall, the safety ceremony is a good opportunity for all employees to understand cultural divserity and to consider the underlying values that direct how people behave and think.
However, the main purpose of the event is to highlight the importance of safety—protecting and supporting our workforce. As DDDK employees and supervisors acclimate to the modernized warehouse, they must pay extra attention to unfamiliar hazards. During the acclimatization period, DDDK will strive to maintain “zero” safety incidents, while continuing to follow COVID-19 preventive measures.
Safety is the No.1 prioirty to protect our workforce!