INLAND EMPIRE, CA – The Inland Empire Regional Composting Authority (IERCA) was selected as the Safety Plant of the Year – Small Award Gold winner on behalf of the Santa Ana River Basin Section (SARBS) of the California Water Environmental Association (CWEA).

The SARBS Awards Program recognizes outstanding achievements within the water industry, with a goal of improving the professional status of all personnel working in the field and increasing public awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment to public health and the environment.

“Fostering a safe work environment has always been of upmost importance to the IERCA Board and its staff,” said IERCA Board Chairperson Jon Blickenstaff. “Over the past two years, IERCA staff have worked exceptionally hard to successfully integrate safety programs and practices into the workplace. Their accomplishments and continued commitment to safety is indicative in this award.”

The Plant Safety award is presented in three categories – small, medium, and large – based on the number of plant employees represented in the award. Award criteria includes number of injuries, lost-time accidents, record keeping, in-house training, emergency response, and program implementation. For more than two years, the IERCA has documented zero recordable or lost time incidents and promoted an exceptional safety culture, program, and practice.

“We are humbled and proud to be recognized by SARBS and CWEA for this award. IERCA’s safety record is nothing short of remarkable and we look forward to working with staff to continue building upon this achievement in the coming years,” said IERCA Vice Chairperson and Inland Empire Utilities Agency Board member Paul Hofer.

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