Kansas utility earns OSHA's VPP Star award

Utility Contractors Inc.'s shop and yard site in Wichita has earned membership in the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration's prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) at the highest, or "star," level. A recognition ceremony will be held on February 13 at the site.

Utility Contractors Inc. has nine employees at the Wichita facility who maintain and store power tools, safety items and construction supplies within a metal fabrication area. This location is the company's second to be awarded VPP star status.

"Utility Contractors Inc. continues to exhibit excellence in safety and health management by achieving star status at not only one, but two worksites," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "The company's outstanding efforts have included management commitment to safety and health, and employee involvement in safety and health programs."

OSHA's VPP recognizes and promotes effective workplace safety and health management. Companies in the VPP achieve average injury rates 50 percent lower than other companies in their respective industries. More than 1,900 worksites nationwide have earned entry into VPP.

Information kits about the VPP application and approval processes are available from OSHA's VPP manager at its Kansas City Regional Office; telephone 816-283-8745.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.