Reading Public Works Honored For Focus On Safety

The Town of Reading has earned a Department of Excellence Award from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) for its Public Works department’s ongoing commitment to safety, focused training efforts, strong infrastructure, and maintenance protocols.

MIIA, the town’s property and casualty insurance provider, announced the award during the association’s annual meeting in Boston on January 21.

“The Town of Reading Department of Public works continues to make employee safety and overall health and wellness programs its highest of priorities. Erik Mysliwy, the DPW water quality supply coordinator, also serves as the department’s designated safety officer, and is to be commended for his outstanding efforts in coordinating these safety and wellness programs for the department and its employees,” said DPW Superintendent Jeff Zager.

“I also would like to thank all DPW employees, including supervisors, for their cooperation and coordination in making these programs extremely beneficial and successful.”

According to MIIA, Reading continues to be one of MIIA's most active members with a focus on risk management from the top down. This past year, Reading’s Department of Public Works (DPW) and MIIA partnered to provide regular training “tailgates” with a focus on injury prevention and wellness. In addition, the DPW regularly conducts pro-active safety training refreshers on current topics based on injuries that have occurred.

“We are proud to honor Reading for finding creative and innovative ways to manage risk and keep employees safe and well,” said Stan Corcoran, Executive Vice President at MIIA.

“Congratulations on a successful year. We look forward to continuing to work closely with all of our municipal partners to develop customized programs that help meet risk management and employee health and wellness goals.”

The Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) is the non-profit insurance arm of the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA). MIIA insures nearly 400 cities, towns, and other public entities in Massachusetts. For more information, visit www.emiia.org and www.mma.org.