2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 20

Commending Southern Air.

Agreed to by the Senate, January 29, 2026

WHEREAS, Southern Air, a residential and commercial contractor based in Lynchburg, was selected as a Level 3 Building Excellence in Safety, Health, and Training organization for its efforts to reduce workplace-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities and enhance the overall well-being of its employees; and

WHEREAS, established in 1946, Southern Air has grown from a small residential heating company with 15 employees, to a full-service contractor, which offers custom-built heating, cooling, plumbing, piping, and electrical solutions to hundreds of clients throughout the mid-Atlantic region from 13 locations in three states; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training (BEST) Program is a strategic partnership between the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Occupational Safety & Health Program and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia, recognizing organizations that voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems; and

WHEREAS, Southern Air was the first company to achieve the highest level of recognition in the Virginia BEST Program, Level 3, a remarkable distinction that demonstrates the organization's strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of its workforce; and

WHEREAS, Southern Air has reduced injury and illness rates by 46 percent below the state Total Case Incident Rate and 42 percent below the Days Away, Restricted, and Transferred Rate, achievements that reflect a workplace culture rooted in safety, responsibility, and professionalism; and

WHEREAS, Southern Air serves as a model for similar employers across the Commonwealth through its deep dedication to creating a safe, healthy, and productive work environment and contributing to the strength and prosperity of the Lynchburg community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Southern Air hereby be commended on the occasion of its selection as a Level 3 Building Excellence in Safety, Health, and Training organization; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Southern Air as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for the organization's exceptional leadership in workplace safety and overall commitment to excellence.