Manitoba Hydro was recently recognized nationally and locally with two significant safety awards.
On March 22 the Canadian Gas Association (CGA) recognized Manitoba Hydro for posting the best annual safety record among natural gas distribution companies in Canada. Earlier in March the Human Resource Management Association of Manitoba recognized Manitoba Hydro with its annual Health and Safety Award.
“Safety is of the utmost importance to Manitoba Hydro. Our goal is to ensure that our employees have an environment where they can work injury-free. This is the second time in three years that we have received this award. Being recognized nationally and locally ultimately speaks to the extraordinary contributions of Manitoba Hydro employees,” said Bob Brennan, Manitoba Hydro President & CEO.
The Corporate Safety Award for Best Overall Safety Performance for 2009 is determined by comparing a number of safety metrics which include: lost time injuries, total injuries and medical attention, number of days lost, reportable vehicle accidents and kilometers driven.
Data from all gas distribution companies across Canada is compiled and reviewed, not only to determine the company with the best annual safety record, but more importantly, to help in the identification and sharing of best practices.
“Safety is the highest priority for the natural gas distribution industry; Manitoba Hydro is clearly committed to continuously improving its record on employee safety,” said Mike Cleland, President and CEO of the CGA.
A program that likely contributed to Hydro achieving this record is Hydro’s Safety Training for Leaders program. This training program was recognized on March 11 by the Human Resource Management Association of Manitoba (HRMAM) with its annual Health and Safety Award.
This award recognizes highly successfully occupational health and safety programs which foster a safe work environment while making a significant contribution to the success of the organization.
Safety training for leaders is a comprehensive safety training program introduced at hydro in 2008. It provides a foundation for supervisory staff to reference when implementing standards and systems that are essential to supporting the corporate safety management system.
“The real win in employee safety occurs when employees go home safely at the end of every day,” said Brad Ireland, Division Manager of Manitoba Hydro’s Corporate Safety & Health after accepting Hydro’s award at the HRMAM Excellence in Leadership Awards gala.
