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VPP General Requirements
In order to apply for the VPP Programs, a company must have an effective, ongoing safety and health program. OSHA believes an effective safety and health management system is the best way to prevent occupational illnesses and injuries. By meeting performance-based criteria, the VPP participant is expected to use a comprehensive system geared toward each worksite's needs. Management leadership and employee participation, in addition to company self-evaluations, are key elements of this process. Annual self-evaluations measure success and identify areas that require corrective action.
Why should my company want to achieve VPP status? You qualify because it is the intention of your company to care for your employees as well as the overall success of the company. Studies have shown that VPP status can help achieve both. Since it was started, statistical evidence has shown that VPP companies have a significant reduction in worksite injuries and illnesses, particularly in cases of days away from work. The average VPP site has a Lost Workday Incidence Rate if 60-80% lower than non-VPP sites. This means lower workers compensation premiums, less down time due to injuries, and greater company profit as company resources are able to be directed to greater earnings.
What are the benefits of VPP? Once you are a VPP company, OSHA will remove your company from their list for programmed inspections. OSHA also provides each VPP site with a designated OSHA contact person who coordinates its relationship with OSHA. VPP members have unique networking opportunities with OSHA and other VPP sites. Finally, and sometimes most important, VPP allows for companies to enhance their public relations, as they are able to promote their own outstanding efforts in promoting worker safety and health. This often also allows for simpler bidding opportunities as General Contractors and Customers are able to recognize companies who have already made the commitment to safety.
How do I start? This is where OSHA VPP Consulting comes in! The process of attaining VPP may seem insurmountable. All the programs and paperwork and hours spent in the effort can seem huge, especially if you are trying to accomplish this task on your own. OSHA VPP Consulting helps make the whole process much easier. OSHA VPP’s Consulting program has taken the many steps of VPP and broken them down into manageable bites. You don’t have to try to do this on your own. OSHA VPP Consulting is available to help companies as they work thru the steps, to achieve VPP status and maintain high regulatory compliance standards. |
