Union Gas Ltd. Employees Recognized as Leader in Industry Safety

CHATHAM, ON, March 23 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Gas Association (CGA) has recognized John Holsappel, STO Technician Services Manager and Jeff Gallie, STO Controls and Corrosion Manager of Union Gas Ltd. for their important contributions to improving worker safety.

The annual CGA Safety Leadership Awards recognize individuals who make significant contributions to employee or public safety relating to the natural gas distribution industry in Canada. The award was presented yesterday at the annual Canadian Gas Association Operations Conference in London, Ontario.

"Canada's natural gas distribution companies are world leaders in ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas which is due to the commitment and expertise of people such as John and Jeff who are dedicated to promoting safe and reliable safety practices" says Mike Cleland, President and CEO. "CGA recognizes the importance of continued development and employee engagement to improve worker safety and Jeff and John have shown great leadership in developing a plan to diminish risks for workers."

Natural gas pipelines and distribution systems are built and operated to achieve the highest level of public and worker safety. Pipelines are buried below ground to provide a reliable energy delivery system well protected from vehicle traffic, damaging weather, and vandalism. Natural gas transmission and distribution companies in Canada conduct education and awareness campaigns to encourage the public to "Call Before You Dig" to locate natural gas pipelines. This helps protect against accidental damage to natural gas infrastructure.

An evaluation committee representing gas distribution companies across Canada reviewed a total of nine applications based on a set of pre-determined criteria including applicability across the industry, effectiveness of strengthening employee or public safety, and measureable results.

Other Leader in Industry Safety Awards were presented to Heritage Gas' Operations team for their contribution to public safety and Ian Turnbull from Terasen Gas Inc. for his lifetime commitment to employee and public safety. A fourth award, the Corporate Safety Award, was presented to Manitoba Hydro, a gas distribution company in Manitoba.

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