Safety record set by Pend Oreille PUD

Published in: Northwest Public Power Association
Date: 3/1/2006

Pend Oreille PUD posted a big zero for time loss accidents in 2005. A steady decline in recordable injuries has been experienced at Pend Oreille since 1999, when an incentive-based safety award program began. The program includes annual safety awards, recognition luncheons for field personnel departments that are accident-free for the entire year, and special safety awareness gifts.

"Although we had a few near misses in 2005," said Paul Boxleitner, Human Resources manager, "the increased emphasis on working safely, along with ongoing safety training and the awards program, certainly seems to be making a difference."

The utility also credits a commitment to improving its utility vehicle pool as a significant injury prevention factor for line crews. For example, the PUD has purchased several additional bucket trucks and upgraded utility equipment over the past several years.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Northwest Public Power Association

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