Region 5 News Release: 09-523-CHI
May 18, 2009
Contact: Scott Allen or Brad Mitchell
Phone: 312-353-6976

U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA recognizes Simmons Manufacturing Co for workplace safety and health success

JANESVILLE, Wis. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has certified the Simmons Manufacturing Co. LLC in Janesville as a star site in its Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

"Simmons Manufacturing has an excellent record in workplace safety and health," said Kimberly Stille, OSHA's area office director in Madison, Wis., who presented the company with a VPP star flag and plaque. "This site's outstanding efforts include management commitment and continuous improvement, as well as exceptional employee involvement in safety and health programs."

Simmons Manufacturing Co. LLC produces more than 500 different models of mattresses at their 290,000-square-foot plant in Janesville while employing more than 230 workers.

The star designation is the highest level of recognition that an employer can achieve in the VPP. The VPP is designed for worksites with comprehensive, successful safety and health programs. More than 2,207 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.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their workers. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

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U.S. Department of Labor releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format (large print, Braille, audiotape or disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.