On June 6, the Production and Pumping Division of the Wichita Water and Sewer Department completed 3,000 consecutive days without a lost time injury accident. The last lost time injury was on March 20, 1996. The employees in this division have worked diligently to maintain their safety record-working daily among hazardous chemicals, high-voltage electrical lines and voltage boxes, and high-pressure pumps and equipment.
Paula Greathouse, Director of the Division of Workers Compensation from State of Kansas comments when learning of the day safety record, "The Kansas Department of Labor monitors accident reports closely in both the private and public sector. Accidents are to be reported to the Division of Workers Compensation, if a work place injury causes the injured worker to ‘be wholly or partially incapacitated for more than the day, shift or turn in which the injury occurred.’ Current state law does not require a reporting requirement like OSHA recording or reporting of workplace injuries and illnesses by public sector agencies. It is gratifying to see an agency voluntarily take an interest in occupational safety and health and promote reduced injuries and illnesses for its employees. These exemplary programs need to be encouraged and emulated."
The key to the Division's success has been a 'team' effort, with each employee not only being accountable for themselves, but also making sure their coworkers are adhering to safety guidelines, using appropriate safety equipment at all times, and using good communication skills. Adequate on the job training for new employees emphasizing safety and teamwork accountability is also important.
This division has proven the theory of ‘Safety First’ on the job pays off not only in tax dollars at work but also in the benefit that each employee is able to return home at the end of each day to their families. Additionally, it has enhanced employee morale and promoted good teamwork.
In addition, there is benefit to the taxpayer for this safety record accomplished by City employees through savings in workers compensation expenses.
Employees in this division are rightfully proud of this 8-year milestone safety record. Production and Pumping employees are already honing their safety skills to reach another prime level of a 4,000-day safety record. The City of Wichita congratulations to all employees in the Water Production and Pumping Division on a job well done.
Back to Top