Blue Ridge Safety Association Networking Luncheon & Plant Tour

BRSA Connects Valley Industries Through Safety Networking Event at Magnera

June event highlights innovation, shared responsibility, and a commitment to safer workplaces

BRSA, the Shenandoah Valley’s leading nonprofit safety association, recently hosted a successful Safety Networking Luncheon and plant tour at Magnera in Waynesboro. 

Read more… www.blueridgesafety.org/resources/brsa-connects-valley-industries-through-safety-networking-event-at-magnera

Designed to foster collaboration and share best practices in workplace safety, the event welcomed both BRSA members and non-members—reflecting the region’s shared dedication to building safer, stronger workplaces.

Representatives from sixteen valley industries participated in the event. Sergio Diaz de Leon, Magnera’s Site Director, welcomed attendees with an overview of the company’s history, its innovative manufacturing processes, and its focus on safety, recycling, and housekeeping.

During the guided plant tour, Magnera’s management team demonstrated their proactive approach to safety and the company’s philosophy that “zero is possible.”  Employee communication stations provide real time production metrics.  Near-miss incidents are openly discussed with corrective measures taken to prevent accidents. Participants were invited to pick up a floor sweeper during the tour—a gesture that mirrors Magnera’s leadership practice of maintaining a clean and safe workspace.

“I had consulted for Magnera before,” noted one participant, “and I’m more impressed now than ever by their commitment to excellence and innovation.”

After the tour, attendees enjoyed a catered lunch and took advantage of the opportunity to network with fellow industry professionals, exchanging insights on safety initiatives and workplace improvements.

The Blue Ridge Safety Association would like to thank Sergio Diaz de Leon - Site Director, Zach Ritchie - EHS Manager & BRSA Board Member, Ryan Fitzgerald - EHS Lead, Claude Hodge - Production Manager, Felicia Sparks - Training Coordinator and Trisha Hall-Minor - HR Manager for hosting this valuable event.  

BRSA regularly hosts events like this to connect industry leaders, promote best practices, and strengthen safety cultures throughout the Shenandoah Valley. If your business would have an interest in hosting a future BRSA Networking event, please contact Lara Hoke, BRSA Project & Marketing Coordinator at info@blueridgesafety.org.