July 8, 2025 — For the third consecutive year, Rowland Water District (RWD) has been awarded the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award by the National Safety Council (NSC). This prestigious distinction highlights RWD’s sustained commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its workforce, part of the organization’s core value system.
Presented in accordance with stringent reporting criteria set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the award is given to organizations with injury and illness rates at or below 50% of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) average for their industry classification. This is historically achieved by only a select group nationwide.
“Workplace safety is embedded in our culture, and we work each day to create a safe, secure environment where our team can thrive,” said General Manager Tom Coleman. “This recognition reflects the ongoing commitment of every District employee.”
RWD’s approach to safety is led by Compliance and Safety Manager Elisabeth Mendez, who oversees a robust safety program centered on regulatory compliance, employee training, and proactive injury prevention.
“We’ve built a workplace where safety is second nature,” said Mendez. “Every team member plays a role in identifying risks and protecting one another. Earning this award three years in a row shows how deeply our team makes safety a priority.”
RWD’s proactive safety measures include:
- Ongoing training programs for all staff
- Investment in modern safety equipment and protective technologies
- Hazard assessments and continuous improvement initiatives
- Strong internal reporting and accountability systems
These efforts reflect an organization-wide commitment to making safety a foundational part of daily operations. By emphasizing prevention and shared responsibility, RWD continues to lead by example within the water industry.
For more about Rowland Water District and its workplace safety initiatives, visit www.rwd.org.
