The CITGO Petroleum Corporation’s Lake Charles marine department and facility has received the inaugural safety award from the American Waterways Operators’ Tankering & Barge Operations Subcommittee.
The organization said the department received the award in recognition of its “industry-leading commitment to workplace safety,” demonstrated by its requirement that the dock operator be present while someone is transiting the gangway from the facility to a vessel. AWO says the practice ensures the safety of individuals using the gangway.
“You put your money where your mouths are with tangible, practical steps to make the facility a safer place for everyone,” AWO President and CEO Jennifer Carpenter said during the virtual awards ceremony, designed to accommodate COVID-19 safety precautions in place at CITGO and across the tug, towboat and barge industry.
Also on hand for the presentation: CITGO President and CEO Carlos Jordá; Matt Lagarde, assistant vice president, Ingram Barge Company and chairman of the AWO Interregion Safety Committee; and Jim Fletcher, owner/president, Team Services LLC and chairman of the AWO Tankering & Barge Operations Subcommittee.
“All of us at CITGO are extremely proud to be named the inaugural recipient of AWO’s safety award,” Jordá said. “Safety is our top priority, and this prestigious award is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the CITGO Lake Charles marine department.”
The Tankering & Barge Operations Subcommittee has identified safe access/egress at the vessel-to-facility interface as a serious safety issue.
