Safety is paramount in the electric industry. To advance safety education and practices, lineworkers, supervisors and warehouse personnel from electric cooperatives across Illinois gathered in Springfield for the annual Safety and Energy Conference held Jan. 29-30. The event was hosted by the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives (AIEC).
The conference emphasized the importance of safety and leadership in the energy industry, providing participants with training and resources to ensure their well-being on the job. Sessions included discussions on active leadership, staying focused and safe practices in the workplace.
During the conference, safety awards were presented to honor both individual and cooperative-wide commitments to fostering a safe work environment. Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative was recognized for its outstanding safety performance over the past year, receiving a 2024 Award for Best Loss Time Rate. This award underscores a cooperative’s dedication to maintaining a safe working environment, exceeding industry safety expectations, and cultivating a proactive safety culture.
The Best Loss Time Rate Award is given to the cooperatives with the lowest number of lost work time due to workplace injuries, relative to the number of hours worked. It reflects a cooperative’s effectiveness in preventing serious incidents that could keep employees off the job.
As the electric industry continues to evolve, safety remains a top priority. It ensures that the workforce can continue to serve communities efficiently and without harm. The AIEC celebrates the electric cooperatives and individuals that prioritize safety, consistently demonstrate leadership in safe practices, and foster a strong safety culture.
At Wayne-White Electric, safety is of utmost importance to us. We are proud of our employees to their commitment to safety, not only for them, but for our members as well.
Attending the annual Safety and Energy Conference from Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative and accepting the 2024 Award for Best Loss Time Rate were: Linemen Kell Ragan, Donnie Smothers, Shane Stricklin, and Manager of Operations Erin Halley.
