Region 10 News Release: 09-892-SEA (09-124)
Aug. 3, 2009
Contact: Jeannine Lupton
Phone: 206-553-7620

U.S. Postal Service's Evergreen Detached Carrier Unit in Hillsboro, Ore., receives OSHA's highest safety recognition award

SEATTLE -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recognized the U.S. Postal Service's Evergreen Detached Carrier Unit (DCU) in Hillsboro, Ore., for its continued excellence in worker health and safety.

A ceremony at the plant was held today to recognize the facility for achieving the "VPP Star", the highest level in OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program (VPP).

"Evergreen DCU has exhibited excellence in effective safety and health program management," said Richard Terrill, OSHA regional administrator. "Their outstanding efforts have included significant management commitment and employee involvement."

The primary work activities performed at the site are receipt, sorting and delivery of mail. Approximately 82 employees are responsible for handling and delivery of mail to residential and commercial customers in the Beaverton and Hillsboro areas.

OSHA's VPP recognizes and promotes effective workplace safety and health management. In the program management, labor and OSHA establish a cooperative relationship at a worksite that has implemented strong safety and health systems. In order to qualify for VPP status, sites must meet or exceed all OSHA regulatory standards and submit to an OSHA review of their programs.

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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