Our annual Safety Awards of Excellence recognize public power utilities that prioritize safety in their day-to-day operations. Utilities can earn Diamond-, Platinum-, or Gold-level designations based on their incident rates and the effectiveness of their safety programs.
In 2025, more than 240 utilities were recognized across eight groups based on total hours of worker exposure. View the 2025 honorees.
How to Apply
Utilities, joint action agencies, and state/regional association members of APPA can apply to earn the award each year.
Applicants:
- Report key safety metrics
- Provide details on their organization’s safety program and practices
- Submit the application along with the required fee
Timeline
- Application period: January 1-31 each year
- Award announcement: Awardees are encouraged to attend APPA’s Engineering and Operations Conference, where awardees are honored.
Application Fee
Application fee is based on your utility's worker-hours of exposure.
- Tier 1 (Groups A–C): $50
- Tier 2 (Groups D–F): $175
- Tier 3 (Groups G–H): $225
Determine Your Group
Your annual worker-hours of exposure determine which group you are part of.
- Group A: Less than 15,000 worker-hours/li>
- Group B: 15,000 to 29,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group C: 30,000 to 59,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group D: 60,000 to 109,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group E: 110,000 to 249,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group F: 250,000 to 999,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group G: 1,000,000 to 3,999,999 worker-hours/li>
- Group H: More than 3,999,999 worker-hours
More Resources
- 2025 Safety Awards Snapshot Report (member access only) Explore benchmarks and insights from recent Safety Awards applicants.
- Awards FAQ (PDF)
- Watch: 2025 Safety Awards webinar
Stay Informed
To receive ongoing safety updates, information, and resources throughout the year, including the announcement of the Safety Awards annual application opening, join the Safety community on APPA Engage. Members of the group connect year-round to ask questions and share practices and resources on safety.