LAS VEGAS, NEV. (May 14, 2026) — The Safety Consultation and Training Section (SCATS) of the State of Nevada’s Division of Industrial Relations recognizes Rafael Construction in Las Vegas with the Safe Partner Award. Designed to increase safety awareness and strengthen safety culture within the workplace, this elite award is given to a maximum of four businesses annually out of the 100,000 employers in Nevada.
“Rafael Construction is honored to be recognized through the Safe Partner Award,” said Trey Medina III, Vice President of Rafael Construction. “Safety is a core value of our organization, and this nomination reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting our workers and fostering a culture of safety and accountability on every job site. We are especially proud of the leadership and dedication of our Environmental Health & Safety Director, John Watanabe, whose efforts continue to raise the standard for safety across our company.”
Through collaborating with Nevada SCATS, Rafael Construction has taken steps towards improving their safety culture, including positive reinforcement, having an open dialogue with employees and recognizing proactive reporting.
Rafael Construction joins a committed group of organizations that prioritize employee health and safety. Recognition is granted for using a range of the no-cost services from SCATS such as safety consultations, training courses, enrollment in the Safety and Health Practitioner Program and more.
“Rafael Construction’s dedication to worksite safety demonstrates a commitment to employee safety that’s worth striving for,” said Todd Shultz, Chief Administrative Officer for Nevada SCATS. “The Safe Partner Award is for businesses like theirs, who continuously pursue safety excellence, and we look forward to our continued partnership with them.”
SCATS provides employers with confidential hazard identification, program development, implementation assistance and training. Employers who implement effective safety programs and have a days-away restricted transfer rate below the national average for their industry may be recognized by SCATS.
Businesses interested in the Safe Partner Award or other safety programs can contact SCATS at 775-824-4630. For more information or to schedule free training courses, businesses can call 1-877-4SAFENV or visit scatsnv.org.
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Photo Caption: Rafael Construction received the Safe Partner Award, an award given to a maximum of four businesses annually by the Safety Consultation and Training Section of the State of Nevada’s Division of Industrial Relations.
About Nevada SCATS
The Safety Consultation and Training Section (SCATS), part of Nevada’s Division of Industrial Relations, provides free and confidential consultation and safety services to assist businesses in Nevada to be in compliance with OSHA standards. SCATS helps Nevada businesses keep their employees safe and offers on-site consultation services designed to help employers recognize and control potential safety and health hazards at their workplaces, improve their safety and health programs, and assist in training employees. SCATS also offers Workplace Safety and Health Training classes in Northern and Southern Nevada. Bilingual services are also available. Visit scatsnv.org.
Funding Statement:
The Nevada On-Site Consultation program (SCATS), at the time of initial publication of this document (3/2026), is funded by a cooperative agreement for $903,440 federal funds, which constitutes 16.5% percent of the program budget. 83.5% percent, or $4,511,698 of the program budget, is financed through the Workers’ Compensation and Safety Fund.
About Rafael Construction
Rafael Construction, Inc. is a full-service commercial general contractor founded in 1991. Built on a foundation of integrity, accountability, and strong relationships, the company partners with owners, architects, and trade partners to deliver high-quality projects across a variety of market sectors. From preconstruction through completion, Rafael Construction is known for its hands-on leadership, commitment to safety, and results-driven approach. For more than three decades, the firm has remained focused on delivering exceptional workmanship while building lasting partnerships.