Frequently Asked Questions
Your literature says you’re an “electrical services firm.” How is that different from an electrical contractor?
We offer the same functional capabilities of a top-tier contractor, and more. But as a knowledge-based business, we use our experience and expertise to analyze the client’s needs and in many cases participate in the design process. This allows us to “value engineer” considerable savings for the client. Also, our dedicated work groups allow us to offer clients a single source for electrical construction and service, low voltage systems, and engineering. Using one cross-functional team for all these disciplines ensures maximum coordination and cooperation, saving time money, and helping to guarantee a quality project.
How far away do you travel for projects?
While we are headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we are a premier provider throughout the Great Lakes Region, and fully geared to handle projects in Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, Illinois in addition to Michigan. But due to our reputation, our work groups have been called upon to tackle complex projects in virtually every part of the country, as well as Mexico and Canada. Many clients respect our work and attitude so much that they “take us along” when they expand or open facilities in other areas.
Do you handle projects only in your “focus” industries?
No. We have focused our attention on industries that have complex electrical needs, and for whom the flawless performance of electrical and other systems is critical to their businesses, customers, and community. But the same qualities that make Feyen Zylstra a good fit for those projects can help ensure the success of any project, regardless of industry. Any owner for whom quality matters is welcome to call.
What is your safety record?
We are very proud of the safety record Feyen Zylstra has achieved. Our commitment to safety is evidenced by the OSHA recordable incident rate and the Experience Modification Ratio (EMR), both of which are well below the national standard. (Lower is better.) The company’s most recent EMR is .53. The standard for the construction industry is 1.0; any rating under that is an indication of a superior safety program. This is not coincidence. We demonstrate our concern about safety every day. Every new employee receives a written safety policy and thorough training. Jobsite “tool box talks” are conducted every day, and frequent site inspections by the safety officer and company executive team ensure that it is always taken seriously.
