Lenexa, KS – In recognition of WaterOne’s strong safety record and practices, the Kansas Section of the American Water Works Association (KsAWWA) has awarded WaterOne the Class III Safety Award. The award is presented to member utilities who practice five years of utility safety and Safety & Health program best practices. The award was presented at the 2023 Kansas Water Environment Association (KWEA) and Kansas Section of the American Water Works Association (KsAWWA) Joint Conference in Wichita, KS.
In this award, utilities are judged on a broad range of topics relating to safety culture and practices. Criteria includes areas such as recognition and discipline for safety performance, employee-involvement in safety and health efforts, occupational safety and health training programs, and measures taken over a five-year period to implement safety improvements. Utilities must also demonstrate a reduction of injuries, illnesses, and other occupational health issues in the workplace. Judges favorably noted WaterOne’s on-the-spot recognition programs, personal safety coaching efforts, and employee-lead task forces that research and review options for personal protective equipment. The award also acknowledged WaterOne’s alignment with OSHA and Department of Labor training standards, which includes comprehensive training and continuing education. WaterOne’s dedicated safety staff interface with departments throughout the organization, and have established a highly effective culture of collaboration. These efforts have resulted in a 50% reduction in recordable incidents over a ten-year period.
“Employees at WaterOne have worked hard year after year to help improve the culture of safety within individual departments as well as the entire organization,” said Acting Manager of Safety & Security Brett Osborn. “This recognition affirms that the initiative taken by WaterOne employees has led to a better, safer work experience for all.”
Interested in a meaningful, safety-conscious career? We’re hiring! Check out our current employment opportunities at waterone.org/careers.