MeadWestvaco plant earns OSHA Star VPP status

The MeadWestvaco Company plant in DeRidder, La., has earned membership in the prestigious "Star" Voluntary Protection Program of the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for achieving excellence in safety and health management.

"MeadWestvaco has demonstrated excellence in effective safety and health management," said OSHA regional administrator Frank Strasheim in Dallas. "Their outstanding efforts include maintaining an injury and illness rate that is 16 percent below the national average for their industry."

The MeadWestvaco DeRidder Plant processes tall oil (tallol) into rosins that are converted into products used by the ink, printing, rubber and paper industries. The company employs about 180 employees. Approximately 34 contract employees are also at the site.

The Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) recognize and promote effective workplace safety and health management. Companies in the VPP achieve average injury rates 50 percent lower than other companies in their industry. Approximately 1,600 work sites representing more than 200 industries nationwide participate in the program.