The Georgia Utility Contractors Association (GUCA) Inc. recently awarded DeKalb Pipeline Company of Conyers, GA, the first place recipient of the 2002 GUCA Hard Hat Safety Award.

Other Hard Hat award recipients include Western Summit Constructors Inc., second place, and Brent Scarbrough & Company Inc., third place.

More than 100 people gathered at Dave & Busters in Marietta, GA, on Aug. 15 for a safety gala. Guest speaker Austin McGonigle, of Success Cycle, encouraged GUCA members to integrate safety into their daily work activities — not only to avoid accidents but to also to have a successful company.

“This award is an important part of what this association stands for. Safety is the key to any successful job site and a company’s future. It only takes one accident to realize that,” said Vikki McReynolds, GUCA executive director.

“Identifying and recognizing those industry professionals who help raise the bar for safety is important so that all companies can realize that a safe job site is possible and profitable. The companies recognized through the GUCA Hard Hat Safety Award are part of this association’s pursuit of safety on all job sites and set the standard for all to follow.”

DeKalb Pipeline Company has been in business in Georgia for more than 40 years and has maintained a strongly implemented safety program for the last 11 years.

“All employees are required to read the safety program booklet that lists all safe working procedures and listen to the ’New Employee Safety Orientation’ tape. They must also attend the monthly safety video showings and weekly scheduled job site safety meetings, more commonly referred to as ’Tool Box Talks,’” said James King Jr., DeKalb Pipeline Company president.

As the number of Hispanic workers increased within the company, King recognized the need to offer the program in Spanish, and in 2002, DeKalb Pipeline Company began holding its Tool Box Talks in both English and Spanish.

“Since half of our workforce is Spanish speaking, we believe this has been a tremendous step forward in employee awareness,” said King.

In addition to company training, DeKalb Pipeline Company also participates in GUCA safety and educational training classes including Confined Space Entry, Competent Person in English and Spanish and the OSHA 10-Hour Training program. DeKalb Pipeline Company also is a drug free workplace.

“Our employees see the commitment that we have made regarding their safety and have a sense of comfort knowing that we care about their well-being,” said King. “Motivation to work safely stems from this commitment, therefore our employees take care and caution when on the job site.”

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