The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has designated Simmons Manufacturing in Aurora, Colo., as a Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) Merit site for achievements in occupational safety and health.
The company, which manufactures mattresses and box springs, earned VPP recognition after implementing a comprehensive employee safety and health management system in accordance with VPP standards, which exceed minimum OSHA standards.
"Denver is a hub for the mattress manufacturing industry, and we are very proud to recognize the men and women of Simmons Manufacturing for their industry-leading commitment to employee safety and health," said Greg Baxter, OSHA's regional administrator in Denver.
Bob Glover, OSHA's assistant regional administrator in Denver, presented a VPP flag and plaque during a March 4 ceremony at the company's Aurora site.
The VPP offers employers the opportunity to move beyond traditional safety programs by recognizing participants who successfully incorporate comprehensive safety and health programs into their total management systems.
More than 2,160 worksites nationwide, representing more than 270 industries, have earned entry into OSHA's VPP. Requirements include a high degree of management commitment and employee involvement; a high-quality worksite analysis, hazard prevention and control program; 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 and illness rates 50 percent below the Bureau of Labor Statistics average for other companies in their respective industries.