Manitoba Hydro Recognized as a Corporate Leader in Industry Safety

WINNIPEG, March 23 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Gas Association has recognized Manitoba Hydro for its important contributions and efforts to improve employee safety and public safety.

The Canadian gas industry has a long history of monitoring its safety performance and the Canadian Gas Association Corporate Safety Award recognizes those companies that achieve the best worker safety records. The award was presented yesterday at the annual Canadian Gas Association Operations Conference in London, Ontario.

"CGA is pleased to present Manitoba Hydro with this award" said Mike Cleland, President and CEO at the Canadian Gas Association. "Safety is the highest priority for the natural gas distribution industry; Manitoba Hydro is clearly committed to continuously improving its record on employee safety".

Natural gas pipelines are built and operated to achieve the highest level of public and worker safety. Pipelines are buried approximately one metre below ground to provide a reliable energy delivery system well protected from vehicle traffic, damaging weather, and vandalism. Workers in the Canadian industry are among the most skilled and safety-conscious natural gas workers in the world. Extensive training is provided to ensure they are qualified to build natural gas pipeline systems, to operate them and to respond to emergencies.

Data from all gas distribution companies across Canada is compiled and reviewed to both determine the company with the best annual safety record, but also to help in the identification and sharing of best practices.

Other awards were presented to Ian Turnbull from Terasen Gas Inc. for his lifetime commitment to employee and public safety, John Holsappel and Jeff Gallie of Union Gas for their contribution to improving worker safety and to the Operations Team at Heritage Gas for their commitment to public safety.

For further information: Paula Dunlop, Director, Communications, Canadian Gas Association, [phone] x341, [phone]