WAPA Undergoes Comprehensive Training Program of Fleet and PPE on St. Croix

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority on St. Office on St. Croix (Source file photo)

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is proud to announce that its team members recently completed an intensive week-long training program on St. Croix, hosted by Prime Fleet Services LLC. This training focused on critical aspects of vehicle and equipment inspection, maintenance and safety protocols, further solidifying WAPA’s commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency in its operations.

WAPA Undergoes Comprehensive Training Program of Fleet and PPE on St. Croix The garage team was trained in annual ANSI/DOT inspection requirements and how to maintain and repair the trucks.

While the line department received training on daily testing and inspection of their personal protection equipment (PPE) to ensure it is safe to use and dielectric testing methods. This enables WAPA to perform routine testing in-house.

“We are immensely proud of our team’s dedication to enhancing safety standards through rigorous training initiatives like this one. By equipping our employees with the necessary skills and knowledge, we are reaffirming our commitment to ensuring the highest levels of safety and operational excellence in all aspects of our work,” said Ashley Bryan, chief operating officer of Electric at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.

“Safety is paramount for the Authority. It’s not just a priority, but a core value that guides every decision and action we take. We’re committed to ensuring the well-being of our employees and the communities we serve. Through continuous training and rigorous standards, we maintain the highest level of safety excellence in our operations,” said Josh Jones, safety director at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.

“As an instructor at Prime Fleet Services LLC, I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to facilitate this intensive training program for the V.I. Water and Power Authority. Our aim is to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain the highest safety standards in their operations.

It’s truly gratifying to see companies like WAPA prioritize safety and invest in the ongoing education and professional development of their team members. We look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting WAPA in their commitment to safety and excellence,” said Gary Sowders, Prime Fleet Services LLC.

Prime Fleet Services LLC has also been providing comprehensive dielectric testing for the Authority since 2023 and will continue to do so annually. This is a regulatory requirement to test the trucks and equipment to ensure the safety of the employees. The training provided last week focused on the operator of the trucks.

This is an OSHA (ANSI) requirement that the pre- and post-trip inspection be performed by a qualified employee and reported immediately if deficiencies are found. The St. Thomas/St. John district is scheduled for their training next month.

The Authority is prioritizing safety and efficiency in its operations, and this comprehensive training initiative highlights the Authority’s enthusiasm for ongoing education and professional development for its team members.