Lozier Corp. plant earns OSHA VPP Star recognition

Lozier Corporation in Joplin, Mo., has earned membership in the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration's prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) at the "Star," or highest, level. At a recent recognition ceremony held at the Joplin plant, Barbara Theriot, OSHA's Kansas City, Mo., area director, presented a VPP flag to the company.

Lozier's approximately 110 employees manufacture showcases, partitions, shelving and lockers.

"Lozier has exhibited excellence in safety and health management," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City. "The company's outstanding efforts have included management commitment to safety and health and employee involvement in safety and health programs."

More than 1,860 worksites nationwide have earned entry into OSHA's VPP. Requirements include a high degree of management support and employee involvement, a high quality worksite hazard analysis, prevention and control programs, and comprehensive safety and health training for all employees. Each of these elements must be effective, in place and in operation for at least one year before a company can apply to join the VPP. Companies in the VPP achieve average injury rates 50 percent lower than other companies in their respective industries.