The use of contractors in the utility industry is a common and long-standing practice.  A well-designed selection process based on established criteria will increase the likelihood that work will be accomplished safely, according to prescribed standards and on schedule.  Ideally, a program should be established that clearly defines the contractor’s responsibilities and holds them accountable for good safety practices and work performance.

The Utility Contractor Pre-Qualifications webinar will discuss the benefits of a well-designed contractor pre-qualification program and examine some of the factors utility companies should consider when implementing a contractor selection and evaluation process.  The webinar will discuss how alignment between utility expectations and contractor safety culture is critical to any program’s success, and how evaluation of contractor safety programs requires steps to ensure they are functional.  In addition, examples of how utilities have used the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Model Contractor Safety Program Guidelines for industry use will be explained. 

The presentation will be made by Joe O’Connor, President of INTEC, a company that provides services addressing workplace safety and OSHA compliance, and specializes in developing programs for trade organizations, insurance groups, contractors, utilities, manufacturers and public employers.  Working with trade associations, such as the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI), National Electrical Contractors Associations (NECA) and America Public Power Association (APPA), he has developed nationally recognized safety award programs, and authored several industry publications on their behalf.  He has also served on various work groups for OSHA's Advisory Committee for Construction Safety and Health, and conducted a number of OSHA Training programs across the country.  Joe received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from the University of Scranton, and his M.S.T. Degree from the State University of New York.