09-714-PHI (osha 09-127)
June 26, 2009
Contact: Leni Fortson
Phone: 215-861-5102

U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA recognizes Aker Construction Inc. for workplace safety and health success on Longview Power Project

MAIDSVILLE, W.Va. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has certified the Longview Power Project, managed by Aker Construction Inc., as a new star site, the highest in its prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

OSHA Deputy Regional Administrator Edward Selker recognized the company at a special ceremony held today at the company's Maidsville facility.

"Since construction began on the Longview Power Project, Aker Construction has shown leadership in workplace safety and health by maintaining an injury and illness rate 59 percent below comparable industry rates," said Selker.

The Longview Power Project, located six miles north of Morgantown, W.Va., began in February 2007 and is scheduled for completion in 2011. The site covers more than 300 acres with about 1,800 workers expected to be onsite during peak construction. Once completed, the Longview plant will be capable of generating 695 megawatts of electricity through the burning of locally-mined coal.

More than 2,200 worksites representing some 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.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's role is to promote safe and healthful working conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, outreach and education. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

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