The SAFETY PLUS program for construction contractor safety was originally launched in the Vicksburg District in fiscal year 1999. Positive results have been noted since its inception, including a significant decline in accidents among our contractors. In fiscal year 2003, the District completed the entire year with zero lost time accidents -- a huge first for the Vicksburg District. Then, calendar year 2006 was worked accident free, leading up to reaching 1 million man-hours without a lost time accident in April 2007. From July 2007 through May 2009, the District worked accident free to again achieve 1 million man-hours without a lost time accident--- eventually approaching nearly 1.5 million construction contractor man-hours before recording a lost time incident. These statistics show our sincere commitment to safety!

Despite these successes, any accident or even a close call reinforces the need to remain diligent in our safety efforts. Even one accident is too many. It is with this mind-set that the Vicksburg District is re-launching the SAFETY PLUS program in FY2013!