Idaho Employer Recognized for Workplace Safety

The U.S. Labor Department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recognized Welco Lumber Co. Naples Division, Naples, Idaho, for continued excellence in worker health and safety. A ceremony at the plant Feb. 24 was slated to recognize the facility for achieving the highest level in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the VPP Star.

“Welco Lumber Co. Naples Division has exhibited excellence in effective safety and health program management,” said Richard Terrill, OSHA regional administrator in Seattle. “Their outstanding efforts have included significant management commitment and employee involvement.”

Welco Lumber Co. Naples Division employs approximately 107 workers who produce Western cedar fencing. The Naples Division is the third Welco Lumber Co. facility recognized for the VPP Star level, joining the company’s two Washington state facilities which are covered by the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Administration Voluntary Protection Program. All of Welco’s facilities are now Star level VPP members.

OSHA’s VPP recognizes and promotes effective workplace safety and health management. Companies in the Voluntary Protection Programs achieve average injury rates 50 percent lower than other companies in their industry.

From coast to coast, approximately 1,100 work sites representing more than 200 industries participate in the programs.