SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- A new plan was implemented recently at Scott to ensure the workers of the 375th Air Mobility Wing a safer and more beneficial workplace environment.
The Voluntary Protection Program, signed by 375th AMW Commander, Col. Gary Goldstone, April 13, is an Occupational Safety and Health Administration initiative to establish a comprehensive safety and health management system.
"The Voluntary Protection Program is a process that defines a single system and structured approach to help achieve the goal of working more safely," Colonel Goldstone said. "In the 375th Air Mobility Wing, the safety and physical well-being of our people and their families is our top priority. VPP will help us achieve those goals."
In March of 2006, former Secretary of the Air Force Michael Wynn directed the implementation of the VPP throughout the Air Force to develop "best in class" safety and occupation health programs.
The program establishes cooperative relationships at workplaces that already have a comprehensive safety and health management system and foster a safety culture of continuous improvement. Although the Air Force already has measures in place to reduce workplace accidents, VPP workplaces have an even lower rate.
The VPP is founded on four principles: management leadership and employee involvement; worksite analysis; hazard prevention and control; and safety and health training.
A successful health and safety program will lead to reduced injuries and lost work days, safety culture leading to better employee quality of life and a happier work force, pride and recognition as a leader in worker health and safety and reduced waste coupled with continuous process improvements.
The average VPP worksite has a Days Away Restricted or Transferred case rate that is 52 percent below the average for its industry. Success does not happen immediately; it comes after commitment to the VPP approach to safety and health management and the challenging VPP application process.
To assist with implementation, Conoco-Phillips will be the 375th AMW's VPP mentor.
For more information, contact Scott's VPP Champion, Lt. Col. Michael Kayser at 256-3213.