U.S. Steel R&T Center honored for safety prowess

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has certified the U.S. Steel Research and Technology Center in Munhall, Pa., as a Star site, the highest honor in its prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

OSHA deputy regional administrator Edward Selker honored the agency at a special ceremony held at the U.S. Steel Research and Development Center in Munhall.

"The U.S. Steel Research and Technology Center deserves this recognition for maintaining high employee health and safety standards," said Selker. "Certification as a star site highlights the center's commitment to the safety and well-being of its employees."

The center consists of engineers, scientists and technicians dedicated to aiding U.S. Steel's worldwide manufacturing. These experts at the Munhall site use the latest technology to research and develop new steel production, processes and methods, sometimes while working in high-temperature and gaseous environments.

About 2,160 worksites representing more than 270 industries nationwide 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.