Lineman prepares for safer future at Tanner Electric Cooperative

Tanner Electric Lineman and Safety Coordinator Terry Dunn is helping make the Valley a safer place, thanks to specialized training.

Dunn just completed an intensive program in electric utility safety and loss control. The loss control internship is a series of workshops offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in conjunction with the National Utility Training & Safety Education Association.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 6.2 million injuries occur annually in the workplace. One of the goals of a Certified Loss Control Professional is to help ensure a safe work environment for utility workers and the public in general. Avoiding workplace accidents avoids down time and can ultimately lead to lower utility rates.

Dunn is among the few electric professionals to go through certification. The program requires participants to complete a rigorous series of seminars and tests, a detailed course project and a 30-hour OSHA course.

Loss control participants go through four 6-day sessions that are designed to challenge and educate participants in new, innovative safety techniques. Participants must also maintain their certificate by attending courses every year in order to stay on top of changes in the industry.

Dunn has been with Tanner Electric for 10 years. He is a former Marine Corporal and a former Staff Sergeant in the Air Force. He is married with four children.

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