Taking Safety Seriously

The Western Pest Services team at the Mountainside, NJ branch always takes safety very seriously, but lately, they have been the gold star standard to follow. The team really understands that their strength is in their unity. When they partner with their customers and their other teammates, everyone is on the same page. And everyone knows what the plan is. And everyone follows it. When a team works as seamlessly as they do, staying safe during the process is simple! This includes when they’re driving.

Because we aim for excellence, Western makes sure to monitor high-risk driving with software. It’s a modern, unbiased system that tells it like it is. Are the teammates driving the cars with the Western logo braking too hard? Are they taking corners too sharply? Are they speeding or accelerating too quickly? And, of course, are they using their seatbelts? These are just a few of the metrics that are monitored with their software. The scores are calculated using a driver safety scorecard report.

This report assigns each driver a score from 0 (the best) to 100 (the worst) based on violations, miles driven, etc. Once those scores are given, it identifies anyone that may need extra attention or training, but it also identifies the standout drivers. Those the others should be emulating. The ones paying attention to the details and putting safety first. And the team at Mountainside is certainly a stand-out!

In the first quarter of 2026, the team led all of Western with a High-Risk Driving Score of five. And even more impressive – they achieved a score of ZERO for multiple weeks. According to the software they use, their average risk score for January through March 2026 was an extraordinary one! These scores are a true reflection of the team’s commitment to safe driving every single day and frankly, difficult to achieve! So, Region Manager, Vinny Cicileo, decided they should celebrate.

Ironically, the team hit RPM Raceway to enjoy some high-speed fun and axe throwing, sharing laughs and well-earned moments together. Because of course, they strive for excellence every day, but when you achieve it, you should celebrate it. And Vinny agrees. He made sure to announce to the team, “Your dedication to safety, teamwork, and doing things the right way does not go unnoticed. Keep leading the way!”

Our teams are essential to our success, and the services we provide are essential to the health, safety, and peace of mind of those we serve – our customers, our team, and our brand’s reputation. When we prioritize safety, we can rely on one another and move forward as one – because you can’t be your best self by yourself. There’s no ‘I’ in Western, and we’re fine with that. Because together, we do extraordinary things. Thank you to the Mountainside team for keeping your communities, neighbors, and yourselves safe while in our vehicles – and then when you keep them safe from pests in their homes and businesses. The impact you have made in the areas we live and work is nothing short of remarkable!