Region 7 News Release:   KC-OSHA-16
MON., JUNE 11, 2001
Contact: Norma J. Conrad
Phone: 816-426-5491

TENNECO AUTOMOTIVE/MONROE-COZAD APPROVED FOR CONTINUATION IN OSHA'S VOLUNTARY PROTECTION PROGRAM

KANSAS CITY, MO - A ceremony commemorating the renewal of Tenneco Automotive/Monroe-Cozad, Cozad, Nebraska, in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Star Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) will be held June 14 at the plant to recognize the company for its three-year continued excellence in worker safety and health.

"In evaluating the company's safety and health program, the OSHA review team found excellence in safety and health management, employee training and involvement, and the application of appropriate resources into these areas," Regional Administrator Charles Adkins, CIH, said. "We were impressed with the participation of top level management in Tenneco's safety and health program and believe it is the key to its effectiveness."

Tenneco employs approximately 720 workers and is engaged in the manufacture of automotive parts. The facility was first approved for the Star Program on May 6, 1997. In addition to an exemplary safety and health program, the facility has an injury incident rate approximately 24% below the national average for its industry.

The VPP is designed to recognize and promote effective safety and health management. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA establish a cooperative relationship at a workplace which has implemented a strong program. Star participants meet all VPP requirements.

Participants in VPP have shown that an investment in the OSHA program is an effective allocation of resources. VPP sites experience fewer employee injuries and illnesses, reduced workers' compensation costs, improved productivity, improved employee morale, and recognition in the community. In addition, existing programs are improved through the internal and external reviews that are part of the VPP application process.

A worksite approved for VPP will not be targeted by OSHA for a regularly scheduled programmed inspection, though it must, of course, continue to comply with all OSHA safety and health regulations. OSHA retains the responsibility for investigating worker complaints and serious accidents.

There are approximately 735 worksites in the U.S., including Tenneco, in the VPP.

Editor's Note: Information kits about the VPP application and approval process are available from the VPP Manager at OSHA's Kansas City Regional Office at 816/426-5861.

Another source of information about VPP is the Voluntary Protection Participant's Association (VPPPA), Falls Church, VA, a group of VPP members dedicated to the exchange of safety and health information. Their phone number is 703/761-1146.