Senators introduce bill to cement successful worker safety program

Press Release

U.S. Senators Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo., introduced legislation today to make permanent a successful workplace health and safety program for both public and private employers.

The Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Act would codify an effective program operated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) encouraging workplaces to incorporate voluntary programs to improve the health and safety of their worksites. The program reduces OSHA inspection burdens on workplaces that have a proven commitment to safety and a record of compliance with standards. Participating worksites must implement safety and health management programs, and maintain below-average injury and illness.

"The Voluntary Protection Program is a win for employers, employees and the federal government," Enzi said. "We have a proven program that can protect the health and safety of employees while saving the government and private sector hundreds of millions of dollars by avoiding injuries and illness. It is time we cement this program into law to ensure that it can grow and provide help for more of America's small businesses."

"Workers across Colorado and the country should be confident that their safety is a priority in their workplace," Bennet said. "VPP is a proven model that encourages labor and management to work together to ensure that safety across the country. This legislation would allow VPP to continue conducting its successful and cost-effective work to improve health and safety in workplaces."

Since VPP was created in 1982, it has grown to incorporate more than 2,000 worksites.

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