Region 7 News Release: 09-1481-KAN
Dec. 8, 2009
Contact: Jeremy Eggers
Phone: 303-844-1299

OSHA recognizes Sherwin-Williams Co. in Coffeyville, Kan., for workplace safety and health excellence

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has designated Sherwin-Williams Co. in Coffeyville, Kan., as a Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) merit site for meeting or exceeding workplace safety and health standards.

Sherwin-Williams, which employs 25 workers in Coffeyville, manufactures, packages and distributes rust and smoke inhibitors, flame retardants and mineral oil de-foamers. The company earned VPP recognition following a comprehensive onsite evaluation by a team of OSHA safety and health experts.

"Sherwin-Williams in Coffeyville has shown it is deeply committed to providing a safe and healthful workplace," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "The company's proactive approach toward safety is a model for others to follow."

OSHA's recognition programs include the VPP for employers and employees who have implemented exemplary workplace safety and health management systems. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent injuries, illnesses and workplace hazards. As part of attaining VPP status, employers must demonstrate management commitment to the safety and health of their employees and actively involve employees in the safety and health management system.

For more information about the VPP, call OSHA's regional VPP manager at 816-283-8745 or visit http://www.osha.gov/vpp.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's role is to promote safe and healthful working conditions for America's 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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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.