What is VPP?
The Voluntary Protection Program was established in 1982 to promote the reduction of injuries and illnesses in the workplace through the cooperative efforts of management, labor, and government. VPP demonstrates that management, labor, and government can work together successfully as partners in excellence. VPP guidelines provide focus, structure, and direction to a site's safety and health program.
Management agrees to operate an effective program that meets an established set of criteria. Employees agree to participate in the program and work with management to assure a safe and healthful workplace.
OSHA initially verifies that the program meets the VPP criteria. We then publicly recognize the site's exemplary program, and remove the site from routine scheduled inspection lists (OSHA may still investigate major accidents, valid formal employee complaints, and chemical spills) .
OSHA also reassesses periodically to confirm that the site continues to meet VPP criteria (every three to five years for the Star program; every year for the merit program.).
Reduced injuries and illnesses
Reduced costs-medical expenses, damaged equipment, and lost productivity
Increased worker morale
Site removed from programmed inspection list
Work toward exceeding OSHA requirements
Program must show continuous improvement
Three year average below industry average for:
Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR); and for incident rate for recordable injury and illness cases involving days away from work, restricted work activity and job transfer (DART). If these rates are above industry average there must be a plan to reduce rates within a 2-year period to below industry averages. Small businesses may be eligible for alternative rate calculations.
Management Leadership & Employee Involvement
A managerial commitment to worker safety and health protection, employee involvement, etc.
Worksite analysis
Site hazard analysis
Accident and incident investigations, etc.
Hazard prevention and control
Engineering controls
Administrative controls, etc.
Safety and health training
Formal and informal safety and health training provided to managers, supervisors, and employees.
Training protocols, schedules, and information provided to supervisors on programs such as hazard communication, personal protective equipment, etc.
Application submission
On site review
Recognition
For more information on the Voluntary Protection Program call (801) 530-6901