SETTING A HIGH SAFETY BAR
Bakersfield – In late March, 2025, IBEW 1245 Members out of the Bakersfield GC Line Department (PG&E), were celebrated for going 3,602 days without a lost time accident.
Bakersfield GC Construction Members Set the Safety Standard
The extraordinary feat was recognized by PG&E Management after IBEW 1245 Senior Assistant Business Manager Bob Gerstle brought it to their attention.
Gerstle said, “On a recent yard visit with Bako GC I noticed a signboard that showed a very large number of days worked without a safety related incident. I was positive it was a mistake and decided to reach out to PGE leadership. They were not aware of this amazing performance and agreed these members deserved special recognition.”
At a time when the industry is searching for ways to build a safety culture and reduce serious injuries or fatalities, the crew’s safety record is a source of pride.
Long time members, Subforemen A Blair Zimmerman and Gavin Salcido, captured the ethos of the group saying,
“Safety is at its best when rooted in a positive culture. The foundations of a positive safety culture are made through clear rolls, responsibilities, and a mutual understanding of expectations. These foundations can be fortified by the understanding that as you progress through your career and acquire new roles, the expectation is you are still responsible for what you already bring to the work group as well as your new responsibilities. This helps create a space for coaching and mentoring to pass down a legacy. When you pass down a legacy it makes the work and the people personal to you. When it’s personal you take care of your tools, you take care of your equipment, and if you can take care of those things, you can take care of the Brother working next to you. Be your Brother’s keeper.”
Left to right photos of George Zaninovich, (1989); Mike Lodien, (2006); Mike Moss, (1990); Blair Zimmerman, (1984)’ Gavin Salcido, (2006); John Sisk (1997)
“These men have pride in the work they do and how they do it. It shows by their safety record. I am honored to call them brothers,” declared IBEW 1245 Business Representative Mark Rolow, declared.
IBEW 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean who served as the Union’s Business Representative in Bakersfield from 2006-2011 before joining the Administrative Staff stated, “The linemen in Bakersfield have always been an example of what we can do if we work together.”
Congratulations to the entire crew for setting a high bar when it comes to safety. You are an inspiration to us all.
– Eileen Purcell, Sr. Advisor to the Business Manager
