Pikeville electric department recognized
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on August 22, 2006 1:45 PM
The Town of Pikeville's electric department was presented a safety award from ElectriCities of North Carolina. The award recognized the department for achieving a perfect record of no lost work day accidents during the year.
"ElectriCities is proud of the Pikeville electric department for achieving this recognition," said Jim Shill, ElectriCities Manager of Safety Programs. "Electric power line work can be very hazardous when working in and around high voltage energized conductors. Pikeville's well-trained workforce is always ready to meet the challenge."
The National Safety Council has reported that every lost-day work injury costs an average of $28,000. Achieving an entire year of no lost-day work injuries can positively affect worker's compensation insurance rates. While the financial impact is important, Shill emphasizes the impact of safety on employees. Shill says the real reward of an effective safety program is that employees are able to work in a safe environment and return home to enjoy life with their families.
"A good safety program involves the effort of everyone, including the Mayor and Town Council, as they have broad authority over providing proper equipment and ongoing safety training," Shill added. "This award is also a credit to supervisors and workers, demonstrating that they can work as a team and look out for each other. Safety first really does pay both financial rewards and in human value."