A ceremony commemorating the renewal of the Springfield Remanufacturing Corp.''s (SRC) facility in Springfield, Mo., in OSHA''s Star Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) took place yesterday.
The ceremony recognized the company for its continued excellence in worker safety and health.
SRC employs approximately 360 workers and is a remanufacturer of agricultural and automotive engines.
The facility was first approved for Star in November 1995. In addition to an exemplary safety and health program, the facility has injury incidence rates about 78 percent the national average for its industry, according to OSHA.
"In evaluating the safety and health program, the OSHA review team found excellence in safety and health management, employee training and involvement, and appropriate resources," said Charles Adkins, OSHA''s Kansas City regional administrator. "We were impressed with the participation of top level management in SRC''s safety and health program and believe it is the key to its effectiveness."
The VPP is designed to recognize and promote effective safety and health management. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA establish a cooperative relationship at a workplace that has implemented a strong program. Star participants meet all VPP requirements.
VPP sites experience fewer employee injuries and illnesses, reduced workers'' compensation costs, improved productivity and improved employee morale, and recognition in the community.
Worksites approved for VPP will not be targeted by OSHA for a programmed inspection.
There are approximately 626 worksites in the United States, including SRC, in the VPP.
by Virginia Sutcliffe