Working Foreman John Koenig repairs a damaged electric line during a summer storm. Koenig and his fellow Central Hudson employees have worked 24 months without sustaining a serious injury.

“Our employees often work under some very difficult conditions – including the devastating ice storm in December 2008 – and have shown what they can do to stay safe on the job, and keep their fellow employees safe from harm, as well. The safety of our employees is and always will be a core value at Central Hudson,” he said.

Central Hudson has an established safety program that includes monthly safety meetings, regular safety campaigns and established safety protocols integral to operating procedures. “All employees, whether office staff or field workers, are trained to work safely,” said Bloom.

This spring, the American Gas Association (AGA) recognized Central Hudson for achieving an outstanding safety record during the 2008 calendar year. The AGA ranked Central Hudson first among its medium-sized, combination gas and electric utility members. “Our employees built upon the safety performance in 2008 to reach the new milestone set this month,” said Bloom. “But what’s more important than reaching a goal or receiving an award is that each one of us has gone home safely for the last 730 days.”

Meyer and Bloom vowed to continue to focus on safety. “Our goal is to further reduce accidents, and aim for an injury-free workplace,” said Meyer. “The health and well-being of our employees, their families, and our customers is our priority. Working safely, enforcing safety measures and supporting our culture of safety will help our employees avoid injuries both on and off the job.”

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