Aggregates operations from around the country headed to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry and educate Congress on the many ways that Rocks Build America’s Future.
The National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association’s (NSSGA) 2019 Legislative & Policy Forum hosted the event, which included a record 295 meetings with Congressional offices in a single day.
NSSGA also presented the Awards of Community Relations, Environmental and Safety Excellence during the Legislative & Policy Forum. The Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards of Excellence are presented annually to operations that demonstrate remarkable achievements in each category. The Platinum Awards are the highest recognition that a single quarry can receive for community outreach and sustainable practices.
This year, Sullivan Road Gravel Plant, a Central Pre-Mix operation in Spokane Valley, Wash., received the Platinum Award of Excellence for Community Relations. Central Pre-Mix is a CRH company. Gainesville Quarry, a Lehigh Hanson operation in Gainesville, Ga., received the Platinum Award for Environmental Excellence.
William “Bill” Childs, IV, CEO of Maryland-based Chaney Enterprises, and Ed Elliott, MSHA senior advisor, were presented with lifetime achievement awards from NSSGA for their outstanding commitment to the industry.
NSSGA presented Assistant Secretary of Labor for MSHA David Zatezalo with more than 5,000 signatures of aggregates industry employees who have committed to the “Why risk it? Just click it!” campaign and demonstrating the importance of wearing seat belts on the job. Those that have signed the pledge also received helmet stickers with the campaign logo.
“’Why Risk It? Just Click It!’ is proving to be a wonderful effort that has engaged our members in the issue of safety in a unique way,” said NSSGA President & CEO Michael W. Johnson.
Carmeuse Lime and Stone received the 2019 NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovations Award for the stone, sand and gravel sector. The company produced a safety video that featured the true story of one of their employees who recounted a workplace incident to remind others how important safety is in any setting.
Joseph Bourdage, Carmeuse director of safety and health, received the award from Jessica Kogel, Ph.D., NIOSH associate director.