September is Safety Month

Safety is not just a priority, but a fundamental core value for Western Cooperative Electric. As a member-owned organization, we are committed to ensuring the well-being of our employees, members, and communities we serve. One powerful testament to this commitment is the observance of September as Safety Month, a time when Western recognizes team members contributions and emphasizes the necessity to be less accepting of risk in all aspects of our operations.

For electric cooperatives, safety is not an afterthought; it's an integral part of our operations. The high-risk nature of their work involves dealing with electricity, which, if mishandled, can have severe and even fatal consequences. From lineworkers who maintain power lines to office staff and member-consumers, everyone involved must understand the importance of adhering to stringent safety protocols near electricity. Our dedication to safety goes beyond the workplace – it extends to the communities where cooperatives operate.

September being designated as Safety Month, underscores the significance of safety in Western Cooperative's mission. We focus on safety in all aspects of our daily operations but during this month, Western engages in a variety of activities aimed at raising awareness about safety. These initiatives range from safety training sessions and workshops to educational campaigns targeting both employees and the public.

Furthermore, Safety Month allows Western to showcase our commitment to safety to the members we serve and the public. We hope to build trust and transparency by openly sharing our safety protocols, achievements, and initiatives. This transparent approach should reassure members about the co-op's dedication to their well-being and encourages accountability within the organization.

Electric cooperatives understand that safety isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. Each cooperative's safety practices are tailored to their specific circumstances, service areas, and challenges. It is also based on industry best practice which goes beyond OSHA minimum requirements. For instance, a cooperative operating in a rural area might face different safety concerns than one in an urban environment. An example would be overhead power lines across rural farm ground while the size and height of farm equipment is ever increasing. By addressing these unique challenges, cooperatives show adaptability and attentiveness to their local communities.

In conclusion, safety is more than a buzzword for electric cooperatives – it's a core foundational principle that shapes their operations and culture. The observance of Safety Month in September serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of safety. Through proactive education, training, and engagement, electric cooperatives like Western work tirelessly to ensure the protection and well-being of their workforce, members, and the broader communities they serve. Safety isn't just a requirement; it's an integral part of our identity. Our goal is to work in a safe manner to prevent injury and we want the same for our members and the public.