PPSA Announces 2026 Safety Award Winners and Finalists

The Paper and Packaging Safety Association (PPSA) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026 individual and mill safety awards, along with the finalists for the Safety Committee/Team and Innovator categories. The awards recognize outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to safety excellence across the paper and packaging industry.

The awards will be presented during the Awards Luncheon on June 9, 2026, at noon as part of PPSA’s 82nd Annual Safety and Health Conference.

2026 PPSA Award Winners

Executive Eagle Award
Rick Parris – Smurfit Westrock

Safety Leader of the Year
Joel Mann – International Paper

Award of Safety Excellence
Smurfit Westrock – Hodge Mill, Louisiana

“These individuals and organizations represent the highest standards of safety leadership and operational excellence within our industry,” said PPSA Board Chairman Eric S. Barnes. “Their dedication to creating safer workplaces and driving continuous improvement helps strengthen the entire paper and packaging community.”

Safety Committee/Team Finalists
The following facilities have been named finalists for the PPSA Safety Committee/Team Award:

  • Smurfit Westrock – Chattanooga, Tennessee
  • Smurfit Westrock – Battle Creek, Michigan
  • Smurfit Westrock – Dublin, Georgia
  • Smurfit Westrock – Louisville, Kentucky

Innovator Award Finalists
The Innovator Award recognizes companies and facilities that are developing creative and impactful approaches to workplace safety. Finalists include:

  • Smurfit Westrock – Cincinnati
    Shredder Fire Mitigation
  • Domtar – Johnsonburg Mill
    Effluent Treatment Plant: Sludge Press H2S Toxicity
  • International Paper – Prattville
    Roll Quality Management (RQM) System
  • Smurfit Westrock – Huntsville
    Hogger Clamshell Improvement

PPSA’s 82nd Annual Safety and Health Conference will take place June 7–10, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. Centered around the theme, “Paper & Packaging Well-Being: Protecting People Behind the Product,” the conference brings together safety professionals and industry leaders for educational sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions focused on improving employee health, safety, and well-being across the industry.

For information about the conference, registration, and awards program, visit ppsaconference.org.