US Labor Department's OSHA certifies Pennsylvania-based Simmons
Manufacturing Co. as 'star' site for workplace safety and health

HAZLETON, Pa. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified the Simmons Manufacturing Co. in Hazelton as a "star" worksite, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs.

"Simmons Manufacturing has demonstrated a firm commitment to ensuring a safe and healthful work environment for employees, making it most deserving of this honor," said Mark Stelmack, the director of OSHA's Wilkes-Barre Area Office, who attended the ceremony.

The company produces more than 500 models of mattresses for residential, commercial and government customers.

The Voluntary Protection Programs recognize employers and workers in private industry and federal agencies that have implemented effective safety and health management systems, and maintain injury and illness rates below national Bureau of Labor Statistics averages for their respective industries. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent fatalities, injuries and illnesses through hazard prevention and control, worksite analysis, training, management commitment and worker involvement. For information on VPP and other cooperative programs, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/compliance_assistance/index_programs.html.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

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