Seven supervisors in Colwood's public works department are the first people in B.C. to earn Supervisor Safety Certificates from the B.C. Municipal Safety Association.

The staff were given their certificates March 21 at Colwood City Hall.

They began a fast track program in October and attended courses every two weeks.

Through the course the seven men learned to use tools and skills to promote safety. They were trained on accident investigation and learned to prevent injuries explained Trevor Davies, Colwood's occupational health and safety advisor.

"Everyday we are responsible for work safety," said Davies, one of the recipients.

Mayor Carol Hamilton was pleased Colwood is the first to have its staff take the course. She explained Vancouver is following suit having all of its public works supervisors take the course, in Vancouver there are 240 supervisors.

"Colwood has shown leadership to our local area and beyond," said Hamilton.

charla@goldstreamgazette.com