In an industry where safety is paramount, Paula’s unwavering commitment to promoting safety within our organization, both through her active involvement in the Safety Committee and in her daily responsibilities, has been truly exemplary. Her dedication not only exemplifies our core values but also sets a standard for excellence that inspires us all.

At our luncheon, we also extended our appreciation to several of our colleagues who have reached significant milestones in their safety careers: Karren Braswell - 20 years, Blake Fleming - 10 years, and Eddie Stocks - 35 years.

As we reflect on these achievements, we are reminded of the importance of fostering a culture of safety within our workplace. Each milestone, each award, and each recognition signify our collective commitment to prioritizing the well-being of our employees and our community.

Ensuring the safety of both employees and the community stands as the foremost objective of workplace safety measures and training. Within Edgecombe-Martin County EMC, this commitment to safety not only fosters a secure environment but also yields substantial financial benefits for the cooperative and our members. In the unfortunate event of an injury, the ramifications extend far beyond medical expenses. Indirect costs, encompassing administrative efforts, heightened insurance premiums, recruitment of replacement staff, and potential damage to reputation, can escalate up to four times the direct costs incurred by the injury alone.
Hence, prioritizing safety not only safeguards the well-being of cooperative employees but also proves advantageous for members and the broader community.