Pennsylvania workers may want to know about the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), through which the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rewards worksites that have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to workplace safety. The average VPP worksite achieves a significantly lower DART case rate, indicating improved safety performance, which is an outcome of their commitment to the VPP safety and health management approach. Under the VPP, those workplaces do not have regular OSHA inspections and are exempt from them.
Some labor unions are concerned that employers who have been approved for the VPP program may use it to avoid OSHA enforcement. Currently, more than 2,200 worksites are covered by the program. Critics also point to the fact that resources that would otherwise be used to help employers who struggle with the implementation of workplace safety standards are being pulled away by the VPP.
According to the Government Accountability Office, a 2009 report found that some workplaces that were participating in the VPP were not in compliance with OSHA safety regulations. The report found that the internal controls at OSHA were insufficient to ensure the approved worksites were deserving. Currently, a bill is pending in Congress that would codify the VPP, making it a permanent fixture within OSHA. If it is not codified, OSHA could do away with it if it wished to do so.
People who are injured in an on-the-job accident may want to file a claim under their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy. Injured people may benefit by getting the help of a workers’ compensation attorney when preparing to file their claims. An attorney may be able to review the facts and then determine whether the person may be able to claim categories of benefits of which the client may not have been aware.
What is VPP?
The Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) is a national initiative by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) that recognizes and rewards workplaces that have achieved exemplary occupational safety and health performance. This program is built on a cooperative relationship between management, labor, and the government, aiming to encourage companies to go beyond the minimum safety requirements set by OSHA.
By fostering voluntary participation and collaboration, the VPP helps improve workplace safety and health, ensuring that both employers and employees are actively involved in creating a safer work environment. This proactive approach not only enhances occupational safety but also strengthens the overall health administration within participating organizations.
Benefits of VPP
The benefits of participating in the VPP are both numerous and impactful. Companies that join the program often see a significant reduction in workplace injuries and illnesses, which directly translates to lower workers’ compensation premiums. This financial relief is complemented by increased employee involvement and morale, as workers feel more secure and valued in a safer work environment. Additionally, VPP participants often experience greater profitability due to the decrease in safety-related expenses and workers’ compensation claims.
Another notable advantage is the exemption from OSHA-programmed inspections, which saves time and resources. Overall, the VPP fosters a culture of safety and health, leading to a more productive and harmonious workplace.
Implementing VPP
Implementing the VPP requires a strong commitment from management, active employee participation, and comprehensive training programs. The program emphasizes hazard prevention and control, thorough worksite analysis, and continuous training to ensure all potential hazards are identified and mitigated.
Companies must adhere to the three levels of the VPP: the Star Program, the Merit Program, and the Demonstration Programs, each representing different stages of safety and health excellence.
To become a VPP participant, employers must submit a detailed application to OSHA and undergo a rigorous onsite evaluation conducted by a team of safety and health professionals. This process ensures that only those workplaces that meet the highest standards of safety and health management are accepted into the program.
The Role of Safety and Health Professionals
Safety and health professionals are integral to the success of the VPP program. They are tasked with conducting comprehensive worksite analyses, identifying potential hazards, and developing and implementing robust safety and health training programs.
These professionals work closely with both management and employees to ensure that the safety and health management system is effective and that all safety and health responsibilities are being met. A key aspect of their role is to ensure that the system emphasizes engineering solutions, which provide the most reliable and effective protection against workplace hazards. By fostering collaboration and leveraging their expertise, safety, and health professionals help create a safe and healthy work environment that benefits everyone involved.
Why Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. Is Right for Your Workplace Safety Case
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., we understand how vital it is to feel secure in your workplace. With over six decades of dedicated service, our team has built a reputation for providing comprehensive and ethical legal representation across Pennsylvania. We work diligently to help individuals navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims and other workplace safety concerns.
Our attorneys have been recognized by prestigious organizations such as U.S. News & World Report and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for their unwavering commitment to client service. We combine this dedication with extensive knowledge of workplace regulations and safety laws to support your legal needs effectively. Contact us today at (215) 822-7575 or through our contact form.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
January 30, 2025
