Safety Record Earns National Recognition for Fourth Consecutive Year by Rowland Water District Aug 13, 2026 Member Submitted News ROWLAND HEIGHTS — Rowland Water District (RWD) has received the 2026 Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety Council, an honor the District has now earned four years running. The award was presented at RWD’s August 11 Board of Directors regular meeting. The National Safety Council grants the award to organizations whose reported injuries and illnesses involving days away from work fall at or below 50 percent of the Bureau of Labor Statistics average for their industry classification. Eligibility follows Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recordkeeping requirements and is based on data reported by RWD. “Creating a safe workplace is one of the most important things we do here,” said Elisabeth Mendez, RWD Safety and Compliance Manager. “Knowing that everyone goes home to their families at the end of the day is what matters most to us.” Much of RWD’s work takes place in public streets and confined spaces, from pipeline repairs to maintenance at pump stations and reservoirs. Safety is a District-wide effort, extending to office employees through ergonomic practices, emergency preparedness, and attention to everyday workplace hazards that support a safe work environment. Safety training, job briefings before work begins, and regular equipment inspections are part of the daily routine. A consistent safety record also carries a financial benefit for customers. Fewer injuries hold down workers’ compensation premiums and claim costs, keep experienced staff on the job, and allow scheduled maintenance and repair work to stay on track. It also reduces the overtime spent covering absences and keeps budgeted projects moving on schedule, which ultimately allows RWD to use its resources more efficiently. “The care our people show each other is the same care they bring to the service our customers receive,” said Tom Coleman, RWD General Manager. “We are grateful for the recognition, and we take it as a reminder to keep doing the work the right way, every day.”
