The Astaris L.L.C. Carondelet Plant, St. Louis, Mo., has been approved by OSHA for continuation in the agency''s Star Voluntary Protection Program (VPP).
"In evaluating the company''s safety and health program, the OSHA review team found excellence in safety and health management, employee training and involvement, and the application of appropriate resources into these areas," said OSHA Regional Administrator Charles Adkins, CIH. "We were impressed with the participation of top level management in Astaris'' safety and health program and believe it is the key to its effectiveness."
Astaris employs approximately 200 workers and is engaged in chemical manufacturing.
The facility was first approved for the Star Program on May 2, 1997. In addition to an exemplary safety and health program, the facility has an injury incident rate approximately 61 percent below the national average for their industry.
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 which 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, improved employee morale and recognition in the community.
Worksites approved for VPP are not targeted by OSHA for a programmed inspection. There are approximately 685 worksites in the United States, including Astaris, in the VPP, according to OSHA.
by Virginia Sutcliffe