Baker Energy, a unit of Michael Baker Corporation announced that the U.S. Department of Interior's Minerals Management Service (MMS) has recognized Baker’s dedication to safe and responsible operations with three District-level 2006 Safety Awards for Excellence (SAFE), in the Production Contractor category, for the Gulf of Mexico Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) region.

In addition, the company has been named as a finalist for the MMS’s National SAFE Award, also in the Production Contractor category. This is the second year in a row that Baker Energy has been recognized with three District-level awards and been named as a finalist for the National SAFE Award. The Company received the 2005 National SAFE Award.

The SAFE program is designed to recognize and commend operating companies and contractors that expend extra effort and conduct their operations in a safe manner, adhering to all regulatory requirements, employing trained and motivated personnel, and taking extra steps to enhance the safety of operations. Baker Energy is receiving the District Awards for its work in the Houma, Lake Charles, and New Orleans Districts. The recipient of the National Award, which will be announced in April, will be recognized for displaying the most exemplary safety performance throughout the United States.

“We are extremely proud of our safety performance record in the Gulf region, and the recognition from MMS for our efforts to promote a safe environment must go to our dedicated employees and our clients who have embraced safety as a core value and as an avenue to improve productivity,” said John Whiteford, executive vice president of Baker Energy.