Safety superintendent captures NSC award

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  A member of the 66th Air Base Group Safety Office has won a National Safety Council “Rising Stars of Safety” Award for 2016.

Master Sgt. Ross Weatherford, the superintendent of the installation safety office, received the award for his commitment to safety programs at Hanscom AFB.

“Sergeant Weatherford is a true safety advocate who demonstrates his leadership skills and tenacity for program success every day,” said Galen Williams, 66 ABG Safety director.

The "Rising Stars of Safety" program was developed by the National Safety Council to encourage tomorrow's leaders to commit to safety programs and share their knowledge, insight, and experiences in the workplace. The program allows NSC to spotlight 40 safety professionals under the age of 40 across the nation.

“The award recognizes safety personnel who promote continuous improvement within their organizations, and create initiatives focused on measurable outcomes,” Williams said.

As an example, Williams credited Weatherford for recently completing a five-year review that covered direct and indirect costs on mishaps.

“The payout from workman’s compensation was astounding,” he said. “As a result, Ross prepared a presentation for Hanscom senior leaders and labor relation managers that identified divisions with higher lost-time cases, along with safety prevention measures that would reduce future lost time.”

Additionally, Williams added, Weatherford provided recommendations for return-to-work policy changes that would result in significant cost savings.

“He consistently reviews current safety programs for redundant procedures, while focusing efforts on cost savings and return on investments for new safety initiatives,” Williams said. “He believes safety should be a primary consideration in policies and procedures and the culture of safety should be developed so that it becomes routine.”

In a letter to Weatherford, NSC President and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman wrote, “You have a proven track record of leadership, innovation and dedication that will help ensure the successful future of workplace safety and we are thrilled to showcase your achievements.”

Chief Master Sgt. Joshua Franklin, Air Force Safety Center career manager, praised Weatherford on his award.

“This award seeks top safety professionals from around the world for the honor, the ones who've done the hard work,” Franklin said. “I'm humbled to work with people of your character and commitment. I'm proud we're on the same team.”

Weatherford will receive his award during the National Safety Council Congress and Expo Oct. 18 in California.